Kale Stewart

Bio

Kale Stewart, originally from western Kansas, had his first introduction to glass while earning a BFA from Emporia State University in Kansas.  He furthered his education by completing an MFA in glass at Illinois State University. Stewart’s early experiences focused on traditional glass blowing techniques.  His fascination with molten glass soon evolved into glass casting and glass sculpting.  His works utilize different mold-making approaches and glass working techniques to create pieces that are inspired by the materials, modular elements, the processes of construction and the internal components of buildings.

Artist statement

Much of my inspiration stems from a lifelong fascination with textures, patterns, and contrasts in surfaces.  My interest in the aesthetics of man-made materials grew exponentially during my time working with my father, who was an Industrial Arts teacher and taught construction classes.  My time working with him in construction piqued my interest in building materials. I had the unique opportunity to see the substructures of buildings that go largely unseen.  The network of materials and how they work together, the contrasts of colors and shapes, and the impressive scale of it all was beautiful to me. Many of the elements in my work reflect the qualities of these substructures, as well as the materials used in industry and architecture.