Meet Michael Hill of Artisan Glass SF
Glass artist Michael Hill was born in Alameda, CA and raised in Greer, South Carolina. While in high school, Michael was fortunate to work for a Master Photographer, Phil Hyman. During his tenure as a photographer’s assistant, he learned the various aspects about lighting, subject placement and time studies. This was the start of his creative endeavors.
In 1999, Michael learned the art of glass blowing. Working under some of the great gaffers (glass blowers), he learned the techniques of using optic molds, color combination and shape. Over the next few years, Michael was a regular at Public Glass in San Francisco, CA. where he worked with other gaffers. Working in the studio where the temperature sometimes reached 110 degrees, he created blown glass pieces that are still admired for today for their beauty.
In 2007, Michael transitioned into the art of Fused Glass. Fused glass differs from blown glass in that there is a kiln and not molten glass. Also, a great deal more effort is required in designing and building the piece since there is no opportunity to make any changes once the piece is placed in the kiln. “Opening the kiln is always a surprise.”
Michael has worked in law enforcement for almost 20 years. During his tenure as a Deputy Sheriff, he has experienced many different situations – both positive and negative. Taking from these experiences, Michael started creating designs that are pleasing to many.
“Law enforcement and fused glass are not considered to be two arenas that work well together. By looking at what is around me as I go through my work day, I am able to take mental notes about the designs and color combinations. Using what I have seen, I let my mind create the bowls, platters and window designs. People are not only drawn to the vibrant colors of fused glass, but also enjoy touching and feeling the pieces due to the varying textures and heft of the pieces. Some have commented that the textures remind them of things from their childhood – exploring the outdoors.”
“In my studio, I primarily teach and coach others in creating fused glass art. As my student goes through the lessons of safety and design, I am asking questions about what they want to get out of the studio time. I have been compared to a therapist due to the nature of my questions. But my goal is to help the student think outside the box and create a piece of art that is reflective of their beliefs and vision, not others.” When the fused glass piece is completed and ready to go into the kiln, the student understands the copious amount of questions. The student is photographed as they go through the glass lesson – giving them a memory of moment of history.”
Like law enforcement, Mike's questioning and guidance is an attempt to get to the core of the person in a limited amount of time. Be assured, the questions are vastly different from asking a criminal compared to a student. The end result is the same - to achieve the basis of why he is there with the other person. The minute details he gets from these answers helps him instruct the student about technique, it also helps the student design glass projects that amaze them. He says, "The more closely I work with students, the more I learn about myself."