About the Artist

Artist Statement:

I have always had a passion of color and have been intrigued by the beauty of glass. I enjoy geometric shapes, vivid colors, and a classy-but-fun style. Attention to detail is always key in my work, from the design to the finishing touches. A lot of heart, soul, and spirit are put into each piece I create, and it is my deepest wish that the spirit of my glass brightens the lives of others, even if in a small way.

Artist Bio:

Julie Rominger began working with fused glass and fine silver in 2003, when searching for a new career direction after having spent 10 years in the online industry as a web developer and project manager. As a longtime lover of fine arts and crafts, it was a secret dream to pursue art as a career. A fond love of color and the lustrous beauty of glass quickly steered the medium-of-choice and the decision was made to jump in full-time working with glass. While learning techniques, Julie worked as an Assistant Manager at Watercolors Glass Studio in Great Falls, Virginia, until the shop closed in 2005. Julie officially started her own business, Rekindled Spirit Studios, in 2004 and sells her work through gallery, craft shows, and private contracting.

Since 2008, Julie has been actively involved in the roles of President and Vice President on the Executive Board of Artisans United, a non-profit organization comprised primarily of many local-area art guilds and individual members. Artisans United operates a cooperative gallery in Annandale, Virginia, where Julie has also previously functioned as gallery co-director and scheduler.

Julie is also an active member of the Northern Virginia Handcrafters Guild and has kept in touch with her roots as a web developer by functioning as the webmaster for the organization between 2007 and 2011.

Over the years, Julie has learned techniques from several well-known glass masters in the fused glass community, such as Shirley Webster, Richard Lalonde, Michael Dupille, Patty Gray, and Phil Teefy.

Although not her primary medium, Julie also works with .999 fine silver which starts in a clay form (called Art Clay Silver) that is shaped and then fired in a kiln and then polished. Julie has been a certified instructor of Art Clay Silver since 2003.

Press:

Annandale Patch Article, by Monica Boland - April 23, 2011