Marty Wilkinson, one of Tryon Arts and Crafts School’s (TAC) esteemed fused-glass artisans, was named the school’s Artist of the Month. His artwork is currently being featured in the gallery of Tryon’s Arts and Crafts School at 373 Harmon Field Road, which is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Having always had a natural attraction to fire, heat and vibrant color, when Marty had the opportunity to study blacksmithing, he became fascinated by the idea of taking a cold flat piece of metal, and through intense heat and forging, create something of beauty. But the medium had one thing missing for him — his passion for working with colors.

He was introduced to the ancient art of kiln formed glass in 2001, and was instantly addicted, being able to create something of beauty with all the color he was looking for. He studied metalsmithing at Haywood Community College Professional Crafts Program, which allowed him the opportunity to incorporate his love of metals and addiction to glass into dynamic, wearable art.

In addition to exhibiting in the gift shop at TACS, Marty’s studio, M Kirk Designs, is located in Waynesville, N.C. This is where he creates the colorful glass pieces to complement his hand-fabricated metalwork.

“As an artist, I find myself drawn to geometric shape, dimension, texture and color. I find the play of the metal against the sparkle of glass to be energizing. I am dedicated to sharing my passion for fire and color by creating individual pieces of wearable art that are visually interesting, well-crafted and affordable.”

Tryon Arts and Crafts School is a non-profit organization that exists to provide creative opportunities for everyone through education, instruction and expression of heritage and contemporary arts and crafts in a friendly, stimulating and enriching environment.

For more information about the school, please contact the office at 828-859-8323 or visit TryonArtsandCrafts.org.

– article submitted by Cathy Fischer