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"Framework" Exhibition Dates: June 1st - 25th, 2006 Artist Reception: Thursday June 1st, 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. (Seattle, WA) Vetri International Glass is pleased to present "Framework", Seattle-based glass artist Benjamin Cobb's first solo exhibition with the gallery. The show features Cobb's glass sculptures along with prints on paper inspired by his signature curved lines and brilliant colors. Many of the sculptures on view are created using a unique technique developed by Cobb, consisting of clear windows embedded in bright and brilliant colors. After creating two color overlays in different, often contrasting hues, Cobb drills a hole in the glass while hot and then gathers a clear layer over the opening, before blowing it out to the desired proportions. The resulting 'windows' allows the viewer to look into and through the vessel. The exhibit also showcases several works where Cobb uses clear murrinis to create a similar window effect. Cobb states: "I am interested in developing new and innovative techniques, and in my most recent work I was trying to incorporate different aspects of glass, particularly it's ability to be both opaque and clear. I am constantly balancing the need to control the glass with a more flexible attitude, allowing me to improvise around the unpredictability inherent in the process." Cobb is a skillful technician firmly rooted in tradition but with a decidedly modern sensibility. By incorporating optical and architectural references into his work, Cobb explores the dichotomy of inside/outside, form/function, in a highly personal and contemporary manner. Cobb received his BFA from Rochester Institute of Technology, NY, and has worked at a number of prestigious schools and studios including Haystack Mountain School of Craft, ME, Blenko Glass Factory, WV, and Pilchuck Glass School, WA. For the past four years Cobb has been lead gaffer at the Tacoma Museum of Glass, Tacoma, WA. "Framework" will be on display through June 25th, 2006. TO BENJAMIN COBB'S MAIN PAGE