April Guest Artist Zdenka Fiala

Zdenka FIALA

I was born in Czech Republic, lived for 25 years in Switzerland and live 17 years with my family in Fort Myers, FL.

Next to my education in engineering in Czech Republic and Switzerland I received an education in bobbin lace, stained and fused glass jewelry, polymer clay jewelry and jewelry using various metal wires. I create stained and fused glass, gem stones, glass beads, polymer clay and wire jewelry as well as glass decorative art work. My contemporary design appeals to creative, self-confident woman of today. My stained glass jewelry is lead free and skin friendly. Earring components are sterling silver; those of necklaces are sterling silver plated. Each piece of my jewelry is a handmade, unique original.

The glass sculptures can be used as base for flower arrangements or for display of decorative fruits. The interactive play of material, color and light enhances the drama of my artwork.

I am active member of SWFL Fine Craft Guild and Art Center Marco Island.

I participated in various juried art shows organized by these organizations as well as other juried art shows, such as Rotary Club on Sanibel Island and FL,Art Crafters Naples.

My Art is on display in various shops and galleries in Southwest Florida.

I have been awarded to Second Merit Award for Fused Glass Jewelry at the Exhibition of Fine Crafts “Made By Hand” 2013 in Visual Art Center Punta Gorda, Florida and Honorable Mention in Art Association Naples 2019.

Technique of my jewelry:

At first, the glass or gem stone is wrapped with copper foil. Then using mainly copper wire I complete the art work. Copper foil and wire is soldered with lead free solder (which contains copper, tin and silver). Using black or copper patina I change the metal color as I wish. My jewelry is coated with antioxidant.

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