Video Interview with Glass Artist Curt Sullan
Curt Sullan was born in Florida and soon moved to Chicago where he was raised. Having a great interest in art from an early age, Curt went to work at the National Zoo in Washington DC as a graphic artist for several years. He then pursued a career in construction law. Curt has been focused on creating sculptures of glass and steel since 2000.
It is difficult to categorize Curt Sullan's sculptures. He uses elements that have not ever been combined in this manner before. His father was a Chicago architect and Curt was influenced by the architectural elements of steel and glass: a tribute to human urban accomplishments. His works are meditative pieces that can be as engaging as watching a fire, the birthplace of both glass and steel.
The contrast between the translucence of glass and the solidness of steel reflects an important aspect of life: without night, one cannot appreciate day... cold-hot, and death-life.
Because of its translucency, there is an added dimension of perspective and contrast within a piece of glass that is not found in any other material. This fourth dimension makes glass especially intriguing in how glass captures light, shape and depth. The way in which light enters and leaves the glass in contrast to the steel is captivating. Additionally, raw and aged steel provide diverse and colorful textures that enhance the overall effect of Sullan's works of art.
Casting large glass pieces of glass is a complicated process requiring many months of cooling time so that the glass does not shatter.
There is simply no book that specifically describes how to cast large pieces of glass. Years of trial and error have gone into the creation of Curt Sullan's process. Because of their monumental size most of Curt's artworks have to cool for three months or more. And it is not until the end of that period that a particular piece can be closely examined to determine its worthiness as a work of art. Curt takes pleasure in creating these works and is equally pleased by the wonder and enjoyment they bring to their viewers.
Watch the video interview to learn more about Curt Sullan!