Matt's Newest Creations

The newest series of works by Matt Paskiet are titled Apotropaic Vessels. The works are loosely based on the mythology of the Evil Eye and the development of talismans designed to protect their owners from its negative curse.

The Evil Eye is a belief that the envy elicited by the good luck of fortunate people may result in their misfortune. In many forms of the Evil Eye belief, a person can curse or harm adults, children, livestock, or a possession, simply by looking at them with envy.

Attempts to ward off the curse of the Evil Eye have resulted in a number of talismans in many cultures. As a class, they are called "apotropaic" talismans, meaning that they turn away or turn back harm. Disks or balls, consisting of concentric circles representing an Evil Eye are commonly found in many Mediterranean decorative elements. In some forms of the folklore, these decorative eyes are supposed to protect their owner by bending the malicious gaze back to the envious looker.

Firenation Glassblowing Classes

Holland's Firenation is very active

The Holland-Springfield Journal printed an article on the paranormal activity at Firenation. How very appropriate for Halloween. Also, we were recently on Channel 11 WTOL for the same reason. CLICK HERE to check out the video. Notice the black blobs that flutter in and out around 2 minutes 45 seconds. Creepy!! Dont worry, none of our glass is haunted.



Here is the article from HSJ. Click on it to get a larger version

Beginning Pumpkins Workshop

What is more enjoyable than spending a relaxing evening by the fire? Well ,on Friday, November 7th , our fires will be lit and our benches will have your name on them. Come spend some time by the fire and celebrate falls arrival Firenation style, by making a glassblowers pumpkin. Space is limited. Sign up now!! For more information contact a Firenation associate or stop by the gallery.

Firenation
7166 Front Street
Holland OH, 43528
http://www.firenation.com/
419-866-6288

The Great Pumpkin Blow

Firenation owner Matt Paskiet has big plans for his Halloween Demo at the Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion. The Great Pumpkin Blow, as it's being called, is scheduled for Friday, October 31 from 6:30-9:30pm. Matt and special guest glassblower Marc Vandenberg will use a variety of classic and experimental techniques to create pumpkins out of glass. The head of Frankenstein is also scheduled to make an appearance a little later in the evening. Below are a couple videos of them practicing for the event as well as some prototype heads.