Josh Simpson
art glass sculptures

Crafted by Josh Simpson, each sculpture is unique, formed from a glowing hot ball of clear molten glass, colored and imbedded with what could be volcanoes, forests, cities or satellites, but which are actually applications of metal foils, silver bromide, powdered glasses and mosaic pieces of sliced filigrana cane. In addition to his planets, Josh is also known for his Tektite sculptures, inspired by a pitted, green-black lump of natural glass. These unusual geologic specimens are named from the Greek word, "tektos," meaning "molten." Natural tektites are believed to be of extraterrestrial origin or possibly the result of meteorite impacts. Unlike most glass, Josh's tektite glass is not homogenous, which makes the work especially challenging. The melted substance is simultaneously hard and soft, making it difficult to control. Into these rough, other-worldly shells, Josh implants his signature "possibly inhabited" planet features. The result is a "Tektite Portal" an almost indescribable inside-out glimpse of an interior world.