Meet Pam Takacs of Midway, Georgia.

Pam, after being persuaded by a friend to visit an Orlando Glass Dragon Festival, became interested in the magic of glass bead making. With a background in stained glass, “lampwork seemed to be a natural progression,” she said. Being totally frustrated and near the point of giving up, Kim Scott and Lori Robbins of the Orlando Glass Dragons showed Pam the basics. Her friend, Holly, provided additional assistance and support. “I left the fest with a [burning] passion, a new torch and six wonky, but glorious beads,” she added.

Pam’s inspiration is drawn from the glass art of Kim Affleck, who she states, “has such control with twisties and sculpture. Ron Bearer, Jr., whose shells are impeccable. Roccio Bearer for her landscape beads, such detail.” Pam goes on to name several other artists including Lori Robbins, Loren Stump, Corina Tettinger, Heather Fermand and Tink. Last, but not least, Pam gives much credit to her friend, Holly Young, stating “she has inspired me to continue this fascinating art.”

The Bethlehem Piranha is currently Pam’s torch of choice. She uses mostly Bullseye and Moretti soft glass to create her glass art beads. Her studio is a 10X12  converted shed  which she calls her “Hot Shop.” Practicing as often as she can when she is not at her day job, Pam spends 6-12 hours a week feeding her addiction and perfecting this new found art. As we can see from her photographs, Pam has come a very long way in just a few months. This art form seems to suit her perfectly - she is a natural.

Let’s all give Pam a warm welcome into the lampwork community. She looks like she is off to an excellent start and I’m sure we will see more of her as she grows and masters the techniques of glass bead making.

If you would like to talk to Pam to encourage her, or simply congratulate her on her accomplishments to date, please join us in the lampwork forum.