Bill Rasmussen

"Is it funny?" I hear this echoing in my head often. Actually, it's a perfect saying. It is so easy to want perfection when working with glass, but is there such a thing? Even when the piece I am working on doesn't turn out perfect, I can ask myself, "Well, is it funny?" . . . or interesting? or playful? or at least cute? If not then I know it really is crap. Questioning though, helps me to look with new perspective.

So, you may be wondering whose voice I hear echoing that question. Only the great Bill Rasmussen. If you have been a lampworker for long, you've probably heard of him. He is considered to be a legend in glassworking with over 70 years behind the torch. He is known for his sculptural work with glass and is probably the first to create solid glass sculptures. He has written books, made DVDs, designs his own tools, and even has a lounge named after him that of course contains a library of lampwork resources.

I am fortunate enough to call him a friend. I love how honest and no-nonsense he is. While he is the first to tell me that what I made is, well, total crap. . ., he is also the one person whose feedback I value the most. I love his sense of humor and am awed by his experiences. I continue to grow and push myself because of him.