Hello Lightning Tamers!

I’m thrilled to share that I’ll be embarking on an exciting journey for my artist residency at the Corning Museum of Glass Studio from September 23rd to October 25th! During this time, I’ll be dedicating myself to creating new blown glass forms that will be filled with plasma, but this also means I’ll be away from the store for a while.

What This Means for the Store:

• Direct Fulfillment Orders: These will be paused until after October 25th. Any orders placed during my residency will be fulfilled once I return.
• Other Products: Items like Alta Robbins, Global Rare Gases, t-shirts, mugs, hats, and patches will continue shipping as usual without any delay.

Podcast Updates:

I know, I know—I’ve been a bit slow on the podcast front. But before I head off to Corning, I’ve got a few episodes lined up for you:

• EP 61: Sparking Wonder: Exploring Neon and Plasma with Studio SWINE ft. Alexander Groves
• EP 62: Bright Ideas: Balancing Art and Career with Jacob Wilcox
• EP 63: Understanding the Science Behind the Art; Neon with Dani Kaes

Pittsburgh Glass Center Update:

I’ve been hard at work on the Neon and Plasma Studio at the Pittsburgh Glass Center. While I’ve  fabricating Neon Torches for classroom use,  with help from Josh Messmer, we’ve been, setting up tables for bending and bombarding, and getting the Bombarding room one step closer to completion. I’ve made an initial consultation with Robert Haus of Neon Archeology, on getting my bombarder setup in a public space so that it can be safe and only accessible by trained staff.

This is one of the biggest projects I’ve ever led, and while I don’t expect perfection right off the bat, I’m committed to laying a solid foundation that can evolve and improve. Stay tuned for more updates on this project!

IR Sensor Controlled Relay (UPDATE):

 Inspired by Amy Lemaire’s Instructable, I’ve been focused on developing a sensor-controlled relay system to enhance the functionality of plasma light sculptures in exhibition settings. The idea is to create a seamless experience for viewers by having the sculptures automatically turn on when someone approaches, which also helps in reducing the workload for exhibition staff. My initial setup involved using an IR (Infrared) sensor, but during a recent gallery show, I encountered unexpected challenges. The sensor was overly sensitive, triggering the sculptures randomly even when no one was near. After some investigation, I discovered that the fluorescent lighting in the gallery space was interfering with the IR sensor’s readings—something that hadn’t been an issue in my home studio, which uses LED lighting.

To address this, I consulted with Doug Dehaven, a Mechatronics Engineer at the Carnegie Science Center, who suggested switching to a PIR (Passive Infrared Sensor) instead. Unlike the IR sensor, a PIR sensor detects changes in heat rather than relying on specific readings, making it less prone to interference from ambient lighting. I’m currently in the process of reworking the system with this new sensor, and I plan to test it during my upcoming residency. This adjustment should lead to a more reliable setup, ensuring that the sculptures respond accurately to viewer interaction while minimizing technical issues.

Glass Solder Workbook:

Although this project is still on the backburner, I’m gathering more research and insights to create a comprehensive Glass Solder workbook eventually. The “Lightning in ANY Bottle” class, did provid enough material to begin this exciting new resource.

Thank you all for your continued support and for being part of this incredible journey. I’ll be back soon with new creations, stories, and updates. Until then, take care, and keep taming the lightning!