Rollin Karg

Contemporary Art Glass

Biography

How does an industrial engineer come to be a highly accomplished glass artist? Rollin Karg, engineer turned photographer turned potter turned woodworker turned glassblower has turned his one-time hobby into a full-time career. He attributes his artistic inclination in part to a strong desire to work with his hands, coupled with the inspiring, park like location of his studio. The tree studded setting is an ironic oasis in Kansas. This is where Rollin creates his intact one-of-a-kind treasures. Standing under his spectacular awning and facing the furnace he built, Rollin concentrates on working the hot glass. He skillfully turns a flowing globe adding intricate colorful designs to the crystal -clear mass. The fire furnace and forces of gravity heighten the artists' exhilaration at bringing dramatic form to soft, hot glass. The excitement is intensified by nature's own beautiful backdrop and exquisitely unique glass pieces are born.
Rollin studied hot glass at Emporia State University, commuting from Wichita while building his first furnace. He originally came to Wichita to attend Wichita State University on a football scholarship. Born in Columbus, Ohio, but raised in Miami, Florida, his artistic career has seen many changes in direction since he came to Wichita over thirty years ago. Rollin's work is shown in the most prestigious and discriminating galleries and private collections across the United States and Europe.