Barbara Steffen works with a torch, glass tubes and rods, and a kiln to create original, unique, handmade and handblown art using a variety of Italian and American glass rods. The beads are integrated into her designs for jewelry and functional pieces. Her love of creating new things led her to sterling silver and copper and she created unique bracelets and earrings using her metalsmithing tools and skills. Barbara’s interest in clay allowed her to add functional pottery items to her accomplishments. During the last few years, after being intrigued and in awe of glass blowing, she added blowing glass to her bag of tricks and has many blown glass beauties in her inventory.
Barbara’s art has been sold in various galleries, on Facebook, at various shows in the U.S. including Milwaukee Bead & Button, Tucson Gem and Bead Show, and Bead Fest in Santa Fe among others. She has been an artist at the following galleries: Gold Country Artists’ Gallery, Auburn Old Town Gallery, Artists’ Collaborative Gallery in Old Sacramento, Jacuzzi Family Vineyard in Sonoma, and Kuivato Glass Art Gallery and The Melting Point, both in Sedona, AZ.
A native Californian, Barbara was always intrigued with art in one form or another. She kept searching for “her” medium. It wasn’t until she lit the torch and melted glass for the first time that she knew she was home.
Barbara lives in the Sierra Foothills where in her lovely yard are rose bushes and lavender plants along with a summer vegetable garden. Barbara enjoys viewing the garden lushness and draws the spirit of nature into her work.
