Kate Rothra Fleming

 I am a glass artist and jewelry designer based in Charleston, S.C., and Golfito, Costa Rica. My career as an artist began while teaching art to school children in Botswana, Africa, where I served with the U.S. Peace Corps. As a flameworker, I use heat to shape glass. The liquid nature of my medium dictates my process; shapes are built drop by drop in alternating opacities creating iridescent surfaces. My techniques include etching, pressing, sewing, use of dichroic and high silver glass for vibrant metallic textures. Utilizing bottle glass such as Heineken for unique shades of aqua and emerald has allowed my work to progress while in Central America where materials are scarce and recycling limited. With a focus on durability and wearability, I make all sterling silver closures and soldered connections by hand. Using the medium of glass to mimic luxurious natural materials like fur, precious gemstones or fine-grain wood translates a lifelong interest in natural history and the spirit for adventure.