Michael Kraatz works with his partner Susan Russell in a hot and cold working glass studio that has been operating since 1975. Michael studied glass with Harvey Littleton at the University of Wisconsin and received his graduate degree from the Rhode Island School of Design. Susan Russell has a BFA in design from RISD and an MA from Goddard College. The couple met teaching high school art in Lebanon, NH and as independent artists built a 1,200-square-foot studio in Canaan.
Michael and Susan design and fabricate architectural glasswork using their own blown and cast glass. The blown glass uses Signature Glass pictures and colors. The cast glass conveys Michael and Susan’s patterns on crystal or black texture 3/8″ thick and plays with transmitted and reflected light. They use traditional leaded glass techniques, as the lines of the lead can contribute a sense of structure and formality to the design. Each of their pieces is conceived with artful consideration of its place in the environment and with the unique vision of the designer and client.
Michael also teaches at AVA Gallery and Arts Center in Lebanon. He and Susan have completed commissions for free standing pieces and wall works for clients across New England.
www.nhcrafts.org/localsites/meredith/lectureseries.html
Website
http://www.kraatzrussell.com