Peter Zelle

In 2007, Peter’s focus has been on developing and refining his cast glass sculptures. Peter uses glass as a medium to capture and transmit colored light in a sculptural form. He feels colored light has a direct path, both emotionally and spiritually into our minds and bodies. His process begins by carving low clay reliefs. This gives Peter the freedom to conjure and explore form, line, texture and compositions.

Artist Statement

My art is an exercise of my physical intuition and my passion for color and form. I think of my sculptures as compositions, a word that resonates for me musically as well as spatially.  I bring together shapes, patterns, textures, and colors in order to orchestrate a dynamic and harmonious whole.  Perhaps the most striking aspect of my pieces is the luminous color radiating through the smooth surfaces, but equally important is the relief on the reverse sides.  In fact, this is the first element that I address in my process, carving the shapes and textures into clay.  It is only after I establish these spatial relationships that I decide the arrangement of colors that will accentuate the form and bring the composition together.

I want viewers to be moved by the pieces.  I want them to be drawn into the interplay of  textures, and shapes, to feel the thickness of the glass, and to touch the polished edges of each piece. I hope these works create a sense of awe. I hope the viewer is transfixed by the colors and forms.

I want my work to create a sense of excitement—a flash of recognition and the wonder of discovery.  With these cast forms of colored glass, I aim to provide viewers with a space for contemplation and a respite from the cacophony of the modern world.