Marvin Lipofsky
American, 1938 - 2016IGS VI # 8, 1997-1998
On view
Mold blown glass, cut, sandblasted, acid etched
Dimensions15 × 21 3/4 × 16 1/2 in. (38.1 × 55.2 × 41.9 cm)
Courtesy of the Isabel Foundation, L2017.78
These billowing forms are created by a lengthy process of blowing, carving, and sandblasting glass. Marvin Lipofsky developed his unique style over a long and celebrated career. He was among the first students to work with Harvey Littleton, the founder of the American studio glass movement, at the University of Wisconsin. These works are typical of his mature style where hot glass is blown into a mold created by a cluster of wooden boards. The glass bends around the wood and expands to form the unusual shapes you see here. After the glass cooled, Lipofsky carved and cut away some of the sculpture to make openings. Lastly he reduced the reflective surface of the glass by dipping it into a mixture of acids, a process known as acid polishing. The vibrant colors are often inspired by specific times of year and locations where he traveled.
