Artistic expression through glasswork has been a timeless endeavor, capturing the essence of light and color in mesmerizing forms. Among the various types of glass available, COE90 glass has gained prominence for its compatibility with a wide range of materials and techniques.
This article delves into the world of COE90 glass, exploring its characteristics, and techniques for working with it and showcasing the stunning artworks that can be created when mastering this versatile material.
Understanding COE90 Glass
What is COE90?
COE, or Coefficient of Expansion, measures how much a material expands or contracts with changes in temperature. COE90 glass has a coefficient of 90, indicating its compatibility with other materials that share a similar coefficient. This makes it a popular choice for artists who want to combine glass with different materials in their creations.
Characteristics of COE90 Glass
COE90 glass, characterized by its Coefficient of Expansion of approximately 90 x 10^-7 per degree Celsius, is a favored material in the realm of glass art and fusing projects.
COE90 glass possesses several distinctive characteristics that contribute to its popularity in the art community:
1. Versatility
COE90 glass is versatile and can be used in various forms, such as sheets, frits, rods, and stringers. Artists can employ a combination of these forms to achieve different textures and effects in their artworks.
2. Compatibility
One of the standout features of COE90 glass is its compatibility with other materials, especially metals. This opens up a realm of possibilities for artists looking to create mixed-media artworks that incorporate both glass and metal elements seamlessly.
3. Vibrant Colors
COE90 glass is available in a wide array of vibrant colors, allowing artists to create visually stunning pieces. The colors remain vivid and true even after the glass has been subjected to multiple firings, making it an ideal choice for intricate and multilayered projects.
4. Thermal Shock Resistance
Unlike some other types of glass, COE90 glass exhibits good thermal shock resistance. This means that it can withstand rapid changes in temperature without cracking or breaking. This property is crucial for artists who frequently subject their glass pieces to various heating and cooling processes during the creation process.
Techniques for Working with COE90 Glass
1. Fusing
Basics of Fusing: Fusing is a technique where multiple pieces of glass are heated in a kiln until they meld together to form a single, unified piece. COE90 glass is particularly well-suited for fusing due to its compatibility with other materials. Artists can layer different colors and forms of COE90 glass to create intricate patterns and designs.
Slumping: Slumping involves shaping fused glass by allowing it to sag or “slump” into or over a mold during the firing process. COE90 glass’s thermal shock resistance makes it an excellent choice for slumping, as it can withstand the stresses involved in the shaping process.
2. Kiln Casting
Kiln casting is a method where glass is melted inside a mold in a kiln. COE90 glass, with its compatibility with various molds and materials, allows artists to create detailed and complex cast glass sculptures. The ability to incorporate other materials, such as metals or ceramics, enhances the creative possibilities in kiln casting with COE90 glass.
3. Flameworking
Flameworking, also known as lampworking, involves manipulating glass using a torch or lamp. COE90 glass rods and stringers are commonly used in flameworking due to their malleability at lower temperatures. Artists can create intricate glass beads, sculptures, and jewelry using this technique.
4. Coldworking
Coldworking encompasses various techniques that are performed on glass after it has been shaped and cooled. COE90 glass responds well to coldworking processes, such as grinding, polishing, and sandblasting, allowing artists to refine and enhance their glass artworks post-firing.
Mastering COE90 Glass: Tips and Tricks
1. Experiment with Combinations
COE90 glass’s compatibility with other materials opens up a world of creative opportunities. Experiment with combining COE90 glass with metals, ceramics, or even other types of glass to create unique and visually striking pieces. The interplay of different materials can add depth and dimension to your artwork.
2. Understand Firing Schedules
Different projects require different firing schedules in the kiln. Mastering COE90 glass involves understanding the nuances of firing schedules to achieve the desired results. Experiment with different temperatures and hold times to find the perfect balance for your specific project.
3. Embrace Color Theory
The vibrant colors available in COE90 glass allow artists to explore and apply color theory in their creations. Understand the principles of color harmonies, contrasts, and complementary colors to create artworks that evoke specific emotions and reactions.
4. Pay Attention to Annealing
Proper annealing is crucial in glasswork to relieve internal stresses and ensure the longevity of the artwork. Follow recommended annealing schedules for COE90 glass to prevent cracking or breaking over time.
Showcase: Masterpieces in COE90 Glass
1. Kaleidoscopic Fused Glass Panels
Artists have taken advantage of COE90 glass’s vibrant colors and compatibility with fusing techniques to create stunning kaleidoscopic panels. These panels, often used in interior design and architecture, captivate viewers with their intricate patterns and brilliant hues.
2. Mixed-Media Sculptures
The compatibility of COE90 glass with metals and other materials has led to the creation of breathtaking mixed-media sculptures. These sculptures seamlessly blend the transparency of glass with the strength and texture of metals, resulting in dynamic and visually engaging artworks.
3. Flameworked Jewelry
Flameworking with COE90 glass rods has become a popular choice for crafting exquisite jewelry pieces. The versatility of the glass allows artists to create intricate beads and pendants, showcasing the beauty of COE90 glass in wearable art.
4. Kiln Cast Glass Installations
Artists pushing the boundaries of kiln casting with COE90 glass have produced large-scale installations that command attention. These installations often play with light and shadow, creating immersive experiences for viewers as they interact with the dynamic interplay of glass forms.
Conclusion
Mastering COE90 glass opens up a world of creative possibilities for artists working in the realm of glass art. Its versatility, compatibility with other materials, vibrant colors, and thermal shock resistance make it an ideal choice for a wide range of techniques, from fusing and slumping to flameworking and kiln casting.
By understanding the characteristics of COE90 glass and experimenting with different techniques, artists can create stunning masterpieces that capture the essence of light and color in ways that are truly unique. The showcased artworks demonstrate the boundless potential of COE90 glass, inspiring artists to push the boundaries of their creativity and continue shaping light in extraordinary ways.
