Antiques
3
2 JS: What forms are your favorites in Blenko? RM: Deciding on favorite forms is difficult as there are too many to mention except to say our collection contains a variety of decanters and many of the more freestyle design pieces. Some of these pieces were easily executed and others more refined. Color is also an important aspect impacting preference as in my opinion, Blenko colors are second to none.
4
JS: Is there anything unique in how Blenko is made? RM: Glass blowing is an ancient art and though improvements have been made, the basic process has remained the same for over 1000 years. For Blenko, their unique colors and designs have kept them a major player in hand crafted glass with what many might call a cult following.
5
JS: How would you define Blenko’s impact/legacy on mid-century glass? RM: Their impact can be reflected by their ability to hire and train the craft people capable of producing unique handmade items and continuing a legacy now approaching 100 years. Many of their original designs remain in production as new people develop an interest. I would encourage everyone to visit their factory and see the process first hand. In the meantime you can get a bigger picture by going to their website www.blenkoproject.org. There you will find a more complete history. Jerry Shrout is the proprietor of Thoroughbred Antique Gallery in Lexington. He can be reached at 859-233-9375 or througbhbredantiquegallery@gmail.com
1 Mushroom decanter, symbolic of the nuclear “mushroom cloud” by Wayne Husted. 2 A trio of decanters by Wayne Husted, ca. 1950’s 3 Examples of the work of Blenko designer Joel Myers, ca. 1960’s 4 Other examples of the work of Wayne Husted, ca. 1950’s. 5 A pair of vases by Blenko designer Wayne Husted, ca. 1951
www.kentuckyhomesandgardens.com
17