UMW GLASS PROGRAM TO HOST ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE KAREN WILLENBRINK-JOHNSEN AND JASEN JOHNSEN

November 8, 2024

The University of Montana Western is excited to welcome acclaimed glass artists Karen Willenbrink-Johnsen and Jasen Johnsen as artists in residence from November 19-23. Known for her captivating, nature-inspired sculptures and her appearance on the Netflix series "Blown Away", Willenbrink-Johnsen, along with her husband Jasen, will share their expertise and creative process with students and the community. Their residency will culminate in a free public presentation and live demonstration on Saturday, November 23, in UMW's Emerick Art Studio.

Willenbrink-Johnsen brings a wealth of experience in glass artistry, honed over years of working in prestigious studios, including the Pilchuck Glass School, a world-famous center for glass art in Washington State. Recently, she showcased her talent as a contestant on the fourth season of "Blown Away", the popular Netflix glassblowing competition series. Her work often features intricate representations of flora and fauna, showcasing her deep appreciation for the natural world and her ability to bring it to life in glass. As a master of her craft, she is celebrated not only for her technical skills but also for pushing the boundaries of traditional glass art. Her creations are featured in galleries and private collections worldwide, and she is passionate about sharing her craft with students and emerging artists.

Joining her for the residency is her husband, Jasen Johnsen, an accomplished glass artist and master toolmaker. Known for creating one-of-a-kind, handcrafted carbon-steel and stainless-steel tools, Jasen's designs are uniquely refined by his experience using them in his own glassblowing and hot sculpting work. Together, they will work closely with UMW students, guiding them in exploring new techniques and approaches to glass sculpture. This residency offers students a unique opportunity to learn directly from two experts in the field, gaining insights into the creative and technical aspects of glass art.

The week-long residency will conclude with a free public presentation on Saturday, November 23, held in UMW's Emerick Art Studio. The presentation will begin at 3:30 p.m., followed by a live demonstration at 5:00 p.m., where attendees can witness the glassblowing process up close. This event is open to the public and provides an exciting chance for the campus and broader community to engage with highly skilled artists celebrated for their dynamic, nature-inspired sculptures.

For more information, please contact UMW's Glass Program Coordinator and Associate Professor of Fine Art, Ruth King, at [email protected] or call 406-683-7344.