ARTIST STATEMENTI learned to blow glass as a special student of Jim Engebretson at UW-River Falls, MN. Jim's encouragement to do something "different" led me to focus on process rather that product. As a result, I've developed unorthodox techniques that really drive the end piece. It is my hope that each piece is an elegant and unique example of this approach.Cane Pieces: These pieces arose from a desire to create sometihng interesting with clear glass. I enjoy working in this style because of the balance between control and serendipity each represents. Maintaining the shape of each vessel while allowing the glass canes to create a chaotic and beautiful infused nest within the piece is an exciting balance to execute. As a result, no two are alike.Silver Leaf: I place sheets of silver leaf, and sometimes copper leaf, onto the interior surface of these vessels which the piece is kept warm by my assistant. This means that I put my gloved hand into the roughly 1100 degrees Farenheit piece as many times as it takes to completely cover the interior with silver leaf. It is very hot work. Once this is done, however, he thin sheets of metal interact with the colors of the vessel to create a whole new palatte and pattern. I joke that "suffering for one's art" is at the foundation of this body of my work.Fred Kaemmer blows glass out of his studio in downtown St. Paul, MN, and over the last 15 years, he has refined his modern esthetic with methods that balance serendipity and control. This approach leads to one-of-a-kind pieces of varying intensity; some exhibit strong colors and patterns, and others display subtle, clear decoration. Fred shows his glass in galleries and fine craft shows around the country. Selected Exhibitions 2018 Smithsonian Craft Show, National Building Museum, Washington, DC2017 The American Craft Council, Baltimore, MD2017 Smithsonian Craft Show, National Building Museum, Washington, DC