One of a Kind Glass Creations by Irene
By Catherine Tsounis
They do not have a plan when they create their creations. They see exciting ideas wherever they go and then create. They search. They rework the same subject, creating with inspiration. Irene Tsiaris and Babis Sampelidis fashion unique jewelry, accessories, home décor in their “Glass Creations By Irene” business. On, they fashion favors, kitchen backsplashes, bathroom vanities, sinks and tiles.
“Our mission is to promote Greek-American art to the Greater American Public,” explained Irene “My energy is reflected in my icon painting on rocks. We form from spontaneous experiences and encounters with our environment. Babi and I do everything together.” Their works express their aim and aspiration and sometimes their artistic exploration. These artists have created a powerful and moving collection of pieces showing their understanding of the art and culture of the world.
A recent exhibition of their works, at the Stathakion Culture Center in Astoria, acquainted the public with their vision. Dramatic, handmade glass jewelry necklace in a variety of styles, with blown glass art grabed a person’s attention. The hand blown art work inspired and amazed persons who entered the “Glass Creations By Irene” exhibit.
Babi Sampelidis, a native of Drama, Greece. He was trained in the art of glass making by his father, a carpenter and glassmaker. “I was born in Germany,” he said. “My parents worked in Germany. I still have family there. I enjoy dual citizenship with Germany and Greece. We create bottles and glass in a 1400F. kilt. Glassware making takes ten hours. Irene concentrates on painting icons on rocks, while I create glass pieces and jewelry. The glass styles are Irene’s ideas. The art of glass making was taught to Irene by me. Our prices are reasonable from ten to forty dollars.” Babi and Irene hand blow each creation, capturing the beauty and color of elegant forms. For more information, email the artists at [email protected] visit https://glasscreationsbyirene.com.
Photo – Irene Tsiaris and Babis Sampelidis
