Valerie Surjan’s artistic process transforms ordinary glass into captivating masterpieces. Partnering with Michael Nourot and the celebrated Nourot Glass Studio, she etches intricate designs into hand-blown glass, merging creative vision with expert craftsmanship.
Her journey begins by masking the entire glass surface with durable, pressure-resistant tape. Valerie sketches her designs directly onto the tape, drawing inspiration from nature’s beauty—flowers, fruits, and majestic wildlife, including a recent series featuring African animals.
What sets her work apart is the precision of her etching technique. She skillfully cuts away sections of the tape, exposing areas for the deepest engravings first. Using high-pressure sand etching with fine-grain sand, she sculpts depth and texture into each piece. Lighter frosted details follow, creating layered, dynamic effects.
To elevate her creations further, Valerie sometimes incorporates gold leafing or enameling for added richness and elegance. Each piece becomes a unique, functional work of art.
Her artistry extends to limited-edition perfume vials crafted at the Nourot Glass Studio, blending beauty with utility.
Explore the stunning handcrafted glass by Valerie Surjan at Adamm’s Stained Glass & Art Glass Gallery, where every piece reflects a story of passion, precision, and artistic mastery.
