Bashi Alé (pronounced Bah-she Ah-lay), a passionate Pacific Northwest artist was first introduced to flameworking when he moved to Eugene, Oregon in 1997. An artist, from a long line of artisans and Italian craftsmen, he had already made significant strides in establishing himself as a surrealistic illustrator and painter when he discovered his muse in glass."I've always been fascinated with the optic qualities that glass presents. Glass is like a suspension of time forever showcasing the artisans will. It can be liquid or solid, dull and subdued or vibrant and glitzy."
"I've always been fascinated with the optic qualities that glass presents. Glass is like a suspension of time forever showcasing the artisans will. It can be liquid or solid, dull and subdued or vibrant and glitzy."
Born in Boise, Idaho on July 26, 1981 Bashi spent his early childhood growing up in California until moving with his family to Oregon. In 2000 on his twentieth birthday he received an apprenticeship with a local glass studio. This experience taught him the fundamental techniques used in borosilicate flameworking and served as a stepping stone towards a solo career. Bashi is perhaps best known for his custom jewelry and art marbles, where his work can be seen in galleries, boutiques and private collections worldwide. He also enjoys teaching his glass techniques through magazine tutorials, video demonstrations and individual classes. A multi-medium artist who also owns his own publishing company, Bashi's success in glass may be attributed to his scientific approach of mixing realism with abstract qualities. Not to mention countless hours perfecting his technique behind the torch.
Artist Statement: "In my opinion glass is the most versatile medium in the contemporary art world that I've come across. I've admired and been greatly influenced by the surrealist paintings of Salvador Dali and the great Italian master from Murano, Cesare Toffolo. My legacy will hopefully be as a Renaissance Man, someone who is skilled in many artistic endeavors, inspired by all those who have come before me."
