I've been working with glass for over 25 years. Beginning in the early 70s with stained glass, I created  custom, one-of-a-kind and limited edition windows for commercial and residential establishments.

In the mid 90s I attended a two week workshop on fused glass and became intrigued with working with glass in its molten state. This led to my interest in beadmaking.

Working with hot glass is very direct and immediate—the ever changing rainbow of color and light while working with dichroic, metals, powders, as well as the glass, continues to fascinate me.

I create my own beads using the ancient technique of lampworking. To make each bead, I melt glass in an oxygen propane flame at temperatures in excess of 2000° F. I then anneal the beads in a kiln  for five hours or more. All my designs are unique—incorporating my handmade lampworked beads, Swarovski crystals, silver from Bali, and freshwater pearls.

I moved to Arizona in 2004, where I am continuing to create glass beads and jewelry. I am excited by the thought of incorporating the desert colors and textures into my work. My move to Arizona also began my love affair with rocks and minerals. I have created a line of jewelry that showcases minerals and fossils with hand beaded bezels, as well as handmade glass beads.

My work can be found at The Phoenix Art Museum and The Bead Museum in Glendale, as well as several fine stores. I am a juried member of the Sonoran Arts League. I have also received grants from the Arizona Arts Alliance, and the Women’s Enterprise foundation. One of my pieces will be included in the show "Beads of Whimsy", at the Joan Mondale Gallery, Textile Center, Minneapolis, MN. March 7- April 12, 2008.

Thank you for your time and consideration. Please feel free to contact me if you would like more information.

Sincerely,
Patricia Tyser Carberry

See my show schedule