Ancient Arch:

Abstract

1996Purchased for the Camosun College Art Collection by the Camosun College Cultural Enhancement Committee from the Fran Willis Gallery, Victoria, BC.Artist Waine Ryzak earned a degree in Fine Arts (painting and lithography). Inspired by artworks in glass she saw while travelling in Ireland in 1970, Ryzak has been working with glass since 1974 and studied working with glass (including sandcasting) at the Pilchiuck Glass School (http://www.pilchuck.com/, Accessed February 16, 2017) for sixteen summers. In particular, Ryzak is fascinated with the physical qualities of glass and its ability to both capture and reflect light. Ryzak cites the works of glass artists Bertil Vallien (Sweden), Dale Chihuly (America), and Clifford Rainey (Northern Ireland) as inspiration to her work. Ryzak explores a range of themes in her art, including spirituality and the environment. ARTIST INFO: http://waineryzak.com/ (Accessed January 11, 2017); Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Waine-Ryzak-852801934775605/ (Accessed January 11, 2017)Robbyn LanningNOTE: YouTube video of glass sculptor Waine Ryzak discussing her latest works featured at the Winchester Galleries in Victoria, BC, October 2009: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yn7ocYKz9gM (Accessed January 11, 2017) DESCRIPTION: Glass formed into a shape similar to a triumphal arch. The arch is constructed with thick squared outer edges with a rounded inner arched passageway. Four columns (two on each side of the central arched passageway) adorn the front façade of the arch. Sand and pitting from sand appear on the surface of the work, making it appear weathered and old. The glass arch sits atop a weathered looking block of glass