BIO:

Ryan Tanner (b. 1987) is an artist focusing on the study and reinterpretation of traditional cameo engraving techniques on glass. Ryan has taught and demonstrated at institutions including the Pittsburgh Glass Center, Ohio State University, and Tyler School of Art. He currently lives in Richmond, VA.

Process:

The process of cameo engraving glass began ARound 25 BCE in Ancient Rome. It is an art form that begins by melting different colored glasses on top of each other. Once the desired layers, thicknesses, and shape have been achieved, the glass is slowly and carefully cooled back to room temperature. Once cooled, the glass is carved away using a hand-drill (aka rotary tool) and diamond-plated burrs. As the artist engraves the glass, they reveal different layers of color the deeper they carve.