Simple Secrets of Solid Sculpture in Boro Glass" by Milon Townsend

[Ro's Glass World]

http://www.waleapparatus.com/catalog.asp?prodid=592815
has anyone seen this vid yet? how is it? level of skill?
its 75$ so i was just feeling it out before purchasing.

[kbinkster]

That looks like an intersting book. I'd be interested in a review(s), too.

[Greymatter Glass]

...without seeing it, I will say...

Normally, "secrets" = marketing speak for "basics anyone could figure out on their own" designed to appeal to the novice.

There are no "secrets" to glass. It's a matter of heat, time, manipulation, and PRACTICE. Anyone who would suggest otherwise is blowing smoke.

Still, I'm always interested to see what Milon's got to say. Maybe he'll send me a free copy and I can write a review :P

-Doug

[jahglass]

I got the dvd set last week. I bought it b/c I was looking to expand my sculptural skills and dont have the time or cash right now to take a class. I figured the video would be a good alternative to a class.

The first dvd was pretty much useless to me- it is all very, very basic info about how to use a torch, kiln, tools, etc. Also, very basic glass techniques like fusing 2 pieces of rod together, etc. I watched less than 10 min and had to turn it off. It would be valuable to someone who has little to no experience on a torch. I was also annoyed that the first dvd forces you to watch numerous advertisements from various distributers, manufacturers, etc.

The second DVD is the meat of the package (and thankfully has no advertisements!). I have not watched the whole thing yet, but I can tell you that it includes 4 different sculptural demos. A dragonfly, fish, gecko paperweight, and a tigerwoman (animal/human form). The filming is very good- nice clear close up shots of the torch and glass manipulations. All the sculptures are made on a National and are pretty large in in size. Milon's verbal explanations are about as good as it gets. Having watched 3 of the 4 demos, I can defenitely say that I picked up a handful of good tips/tricks. More than enough to justify the cost of the DVD. I would have liked to see how he goes about making some of the prep work for his pieces and how he finishes off pieces to make them more marketable instead of how to light a torch. Overall, Id say its a good purchase. If you can make (and sell) one or two of the the sculptures demoed, than you will easily pay for the dvd and have some cash in your pocket.

If you have any other questions, dont hesitate to ask.
-Matt O.

[GMdesign]

I took a week Milon course at CMoG in the summer of 2005. Seeing him demo in person leaves you speechless. His books and videos are amazing as well. He is still one of the biggest inspirations in my life with glass form.

His books and videos may not show you his 5 lbs. of molten glass, under the leg, stretch behind his back, back thru the leg torso bends.... ( If you've seen this in action then you know what i am talking about. I know Jeremy from Croglass and the other lampworkers we met during the trip still laugh about it.)... but they are worth every penny. His creative aura just seems to radiate to the people around him. An unforgettable week.

-Greg
GMdesign

[Ro's Glass World]

thanks so much for the detailed explanation. i actually submitted to smartflix to carry it for rental. i will likely get it though. i find that even basic vids usually have at least some new twist to offer, unless its just fusing rods, lol. and i have his other dvds and are very happy with them.
ro

[Ro's Glass World]

I finally got the dvd's and watched the first so far. even though its very basic info I found i still learned some tips and techniques. i cant wait to watch dvd 2 in a bit.
ro