John Kiley
α Gem
Traver Gallery is pleased to present α Gem, an exhibition of new work by John Kiley. Extending his exploration of the mutable qualities of glass, the six starkly elegant monochrome Fractographs presented in this show are a study in tonality, optics, and transformation. Together, the solid black optical glass sculptures appear like a constellation; their white breaks reflecting light within black planes of glass, like stars punctuating the night sky.
Recognized internationally for his contemporary blown glass sculpture, John Kiley has recently spent less and less time in the hot shop. Since 2015, he has embraced a self-defined studio glass practice that is rooted in concept. Informed deeply by a studied manipulation and comprehension of the material, Kiley uses primary geometric forms as the architecture for his glass sculptures; breaking and stacking optical glass to create dynamic artworks that record a frozen moment in time and the physical intervention by the artist.
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About
John Kiley - view profile
American, b. 1973, Seattle, USA, based in Seattle and San Francisco, USA.
John Kiley, a renowned artist at the forefront of contemporary glass sculpture, is known for his groundbreaking exploration at the intersection of sculpture, blown glass, and architectural forms. With a unique blend of technical expertise and artistic vision, Kiley’s work transcends boundaries with a dynamic interplay of light, structure, and spatial relationships.
Kiley’s affinity for glass was evident from an early age. As a teenager, he experimented with painting on glass. Later, he refined his skills through formal training and apprenticeships with master artists, including 16 years with Lino Tagliapietra, developing a deep understanding of traditional glassblowing and fabrication techniques.
Kiley’s sculptures frequently incorporate individual elements into larger frameworks, showcasing his meticulous attention to detail and risk-taking approach. Whether creating towering structures, intricate blown glass orbs, or delicately assembled shattered blocks, each series exemplifies his ability to seemingly defy gravity. Through this creative process, he explores the inherent tension between chaos and order, strength and fragility, resulting in works that evoke metamorphosis and the intrinsic beauty of imperfection.
In addition to his solo work, Kiley is known for his collaborative projects with architects, engineers, and other master artists, pushing the boundaries of what is possible within the realm of glass in sculpture. His willingness to experiment with scale, materials, and techniques have earned him widespread acclaim and recognition, with his work featured in galleries, museums, and public spaces worldwide.