Tell us about yourself.
Dennis started his career in glassblowing at Tyler School of Art, part of Temple University, receiving his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 2005. Following graduation, he accepted a position at Wheaton Village in Millville, NJ, home of the Museum of American Glass. There, Dennis was able to continue blowing glass and learning from visiting artists. When presented with the opportunity to teach the art of glassblowing to others while continuing to hone his craft at the Banana Factory, part of the ArtsQuest non-profit, Dennis had to accept. He has remained in the hot shop there since, blowing glass, teaching students, and managing the ArtsQuest Glass Studio in Bethlehem, PA.
What draws you to the material you work with?
I enjoy how the process of working with hot glass is very physical and requires a high level of understanding how the material behaves. When glass is hot and fluid it feels like it has its own life force and you must work with it, and guide its life into creating what you want it to transform into.
What themes do you pursue in your work, and why have you chosen the processes that you use in your work?
Botanical forms, Sci-Fi concepts, themes involving current science and modern technology.
What is your dream project?
I would love to contribute to creating some kind of large scale project that involves the advancement of science, technology, space travel. A project that affects people’s lives in a positive way beyond the aesthetic.
Why are you a member of GAS?
GAS is a great network of artists who are like minded and interested in many things I am. I like to use GAS as a way to stay connected and up to date in the field.