Featured Artist: Rick Shapero

Rick Shapero in his studio

The recent move of the Alberta House shop to the south side where the sun pours through the window shows off Rick Shapero’s sparkling blown glass to special advantage. And—April is Michigan Glass Month. Both good reasons to feature this Cedarville artist whose glass has graced Alberta House since we opened in 1985. For many years Rick was also in the Sault Summer Arts Festival where he won many awards.

Rick says:

My approach to my craft is informed by a few basic principles: Form, Function, Beauty and Utility. My goal is to create objects that people connect with, find joy in and feel good using. I am, for the most part, a self trained artist. My work is the result of a mixture of fascination with my medium and many, many hours, over 18 years, of working hard in front of my furnace. My initial training came from an introductory class with M. Rhys Williams of Claremont, California, augmented by weekends spent at his studio, watching him and bringing him occasional bits. At that time, it was simply a great creative outlet and lots of fun.

The home for my creative endeavors is a 36 foot geodesic dome. This wonder filled space allows me to pursue my craft as well as offer public demonstrations. My work schedule is somewhat fluid (much like my medium) so please call ahead of you are interested in a demo. Groups are welcome.

You can find Rick’s work at Creekside Herbs & Art, 752 N. Blindline Road in Cedarville.

Works by Rick Shapero Click on a thumbnail to see a larger version.
Glass bowl: Rick Shapero's donation to last fall's art auction	Glass bowl on stand: A later creation by Rick Shapero	Kyung Hatfield in the Alberta House shop with a Rick Shapero vase (photo courtesy of Dave Bigelow)

Last updated: April 1, 2007

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