Evergreen Dream has been selected as the League of NH Craftsmen’s Annual Ornament. Juried League members Jeff Lamy and Erica Steinmetz of Bedford, NH hand crafted the ornament using borosilicate glass, a very durable glass that is similar to Pyrex.

Jeff and Erica have lived in New Hampshire all their lives, and their design for this ornament was inspired by snow-covered evergreen trees. “Our design is a modern twist on Victorian-style glass ornaments,” said Jeff. “It is our interpretation of an icicle on an evergreen tree – a form of nature’s decoration – and it also mirrors the deep green color of the tree,” said Erica. “The shape and color really came together in a way that represents what the holiday season is all about for us.” Jeff and Erica worked together on the design of the ornament, and then had specific roles during its production: Erica created the shape and initial lines, while Jeff added the decorative details and finished the ornament. Their working partnership is an extension of their personal relationship, as they are engaged to be married next spring.

Jeff and Erica create blown and lamp-worked glass art, including ornaments, pendants, beads, vessels, and sculpture, at their Innervision Glass Studio in Bedford. They primarily work with using borosilicate glass because it is very durable material. “It is also very challenging to work with as it sets up quickly, so you have to work fast before it cools,” says Erica. “We make wonderful pieces of art that people can use and enjoy every day, such as bottle openers, picture frames, night lights, even knitting needles.”

Jeff and Erica have been juried members of the League since September 2006. “We both attended the League’s Annual Craftsmen’s Fair when we were younger, so it is a thrill to be part of it now says Erica. Both were interested in pursuing a career in the arts, particularly in sculpture. Jeff started with ceramics, but began working with glass while attending the New Hampshire Institute of Art in 1999, and then did an apprenticeship in glass. Erica was interested in sculpture, and then got hooked on working with glass after meeting Jeff in 2002. Jeff enjoys the sculpting aspect of glass, and Erica’s interest focuses on color techniques. “Jeff likes to incorporate whimsical critters, such as frogs, dragonflies, and octopuses, in our pieces, and I like to experiment with colors derived from nature,” says Erica.

About the League of NH Craftsmen Annual Ornament

The League’s annual ornament selection, now in its 21st year, is open to all juried League craftspeople. The ornament is selected by the managers of the seven League of New Hampshire Craftsmen Retail Galleries, which are located around the state. Evergreen Dream ornaments are sold exclusively by the League of NH Craftsmen Concord Retail Gallery, located at 36 North Main Street, other League of NH Craftsmen retail galleries around the state, and at the League of NH Craftsmen’s Fair, August 2-10. Each ornament is signed by Jeff and Erica, dated 2008, and numbered as one of a limited edition. The ornament comes beautifully gift-boxed and sells for $16.50. Major credit cards are accepted for ordering the ornament by telephone. For further information or to place an order, please phone the Concord Retail Gallery at 603-228-8171, email leaguearts@verizon.net.