### August 6 through October 23, 2016

# Celestia

## blown glass by Helen Koons Gragert of Stillwater, Oklahoma

### Statement

Celestia Weather Skies by Helen Koons Gragert Celestia Weather Skies by Helen Koons Gragert has evolved over the last several years as a personal tribute from my heart to my loved ones, to those who have nurtured, encouraged, and inspired me. In my mind there was no better way to honor them and their significance in my life than through creations of blown glass. Many of my glass pieces are of a musical nature because of the music so many members of my family have contributed to my life and well-being. In addition, the dance and flow of shapes and sizes within the groupings originated from dreamy memories and lasting impressions. Eternity One piece, , is a richly filled palette of sparkling colors and a swirling strand of white. It expresses my deep gratitude to my husband for all of our years of love and life together and, I pray, many more to come. As with all of my endeavors, I could not have blown this large a piece without Steve's assistance and support. My choice of colors in some pieces - the use of twists of glass canes or fused Merry Weather Skies inserts - often evoked endearing perceptions of loved ones. reminds me of my dear grandmother. That piece on the hot blow pipe was like the reflection of a magnificent sunrise, the type of morning sky Mamo always told me the fairy godmother, Merryweather, had painted just for us. Designing and experimenting with my concepts was a joyful process through the years. I have been privately and passionately fulfilled with the creation of this body of work, a work of love for those dearest to me. I am deeply indebted to the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery for this opportunity to show and share my work.

Celestia Weather Skies by Helen Koons Gragert Celestia Weather Skies by Helen Koons Gragert has evolved over the last several years as a personal tribute from my heart to my loved ones, to those who have nurtured, encouraged, and inspired me. In my mind there was no better way to honor them and their significance in my life than through creations of blown glass. Many of my glass pieces are of a musical nature because of the music so many members of my family have contributed to my life and well-being. In addition, the dance and flow of shapes and sizes within the groupings originated from dreamy memories and lasting impressions. Eternity One piece, , is a richly filled palette of sparkling colors and a swirling strand of white. It expresses my deep gratitude to my husband for all of our years of love and life together and, I pray, many more to come. As with all of my endeavors, I could not have blown this large a piece without Steve's assistance and support. My choice of colors in some pieces - the use of twists of glass canes or fused Merry Weather Skies inserts - often evoked endearing perceptions of loved ones. reminds me of my dear grandmother. That piece on the hot blow pipe was like the reflection of a magnificent sunrise, the type of morning sky Mamo always told me the fairy godmother, Merryweather, had painted just for us. Designing and experimenting with my concepts was a joyful process through the years. I have been privately and passionately fulfilled with the creation of this body of work, a work of love for those dearest to me. I am deeply indebted to the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery for this opportunity to show and share my work. Merry Weather Skies by Helen Koons Gragert

### Biography

Very few women receive a set of blow pipes as an anniversary gift, but Helen Koons Gragert was given such a treasure by her husband, Steve, on the couple's tenth. She was ecstatic. Helen is a native of Lindsborg, Kansas, and credits the rich artistic environment of the community and schools for her vocation and avocation. Helen and her mother, Kathleen Koons, frequently visited the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery, and those memories have served to inspire and motivate Helen. A glassblower for more than thirty years, Helen has operated and maintained a private studio, without assistance, for nearly nineteen of those years. Most glassblowers