Spotlight on Beverly Seibenhener
I did not start my journey in glass until I retired, so I guess I am a late starter. After a career in Perioperative Nursing, I started going to classes at William Holland School of Lapidary Arts.
I was lucky enough to take lampworking classes from Ann Royer who encouraged me, and helped me to set up my own lampworking area with the torch, kiln, concentrator and all those wonderful tools. Judy Peppers also helped me with my lampworking journey at William Holland.
One of the things I regret is not starting my glass journey while I was still working in the operating room. Knowing all the sales reps would have helped in purchasing tools.
The Fall after I retired, I went on my “Retirement Trip” which was so much fun – for six weeks I traveled around the country, visiting many lampworking companies along the way. I visited CGBeads north of Dallas, Rio Grande in New Mexico, Graceful Customs in Gilroy, California, Arrow Springs in California, and Frantz Art Glass in Washington. I also visited family and friends along the way.
I have continued to take classes as often as possible. I totally enjoyed going to Bead Camp in Nokomis taking classes from Corina Tettinger, Stephanie Sersich, Deb Karash, Carolyn Baum, Heather Trimlett, and others. I have taken online courses which are also fun. Recently I took a class with Loren Stump, my first in-person class since Covid, and it was a fantastic class. As you can see, I am a class junkie.
I was lucky enough to take a class with Lucio Bubacco in Murano. He also had Igor Balbi to teach some that week. Going to the Carlo Dona shop and meeting Roberto was also a highlight of my trip.
I am also a tool junkie. And I love using those tools to make things for others. I made this cross with 100 roses for a friend when she turned 100 years old.
I have many other hobbies such as machine embroidery, silversmithing, chain making, alcohol inks, and jewelry making, just to name a few. Guess you could say I am a “Jack of many arts and crafts, Master of none.” I did start making gummy bears on the torch when my granddaughter told me she was pregnant and the baby was about the size of a gummy bear.
I have also started learning the art of Fusing, and have taken one in-person class from Amanda Taylor in North Carolina. It was a wonderful class. This is my favorite piece that Amanda helped me make.
I have thoroughly enjoyed being involved with the Glass Dragons and look forward to participating in their future endeavors.
“Spotlight On” is an area where we highlight one of our own. Members are encouraged to share a personal story or an adventure. To see past Spotlight articles, visit our website.
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