Paul Stankard Fertile Seeds 2002 Hand Blown Glass Round Paperweight

Artist: Paul Stankard
Title: Fertile Seeds
Medium: Hand Blown Glass
Size: 2 1/2" high x 3 1/4" diameter
Inscription: Signed and dated 'Paul J. Stankard 2002'
Year: 2002
Documentation: Includes Gallery Certificate of Authenticity

"Fertile Seeds", created by the acclaimed glass artist Paul J. Stankard in 2002, is a hand blown glass paperweight that showcases his exceptional skill and creativity. This mesmerizing sculpture encapsulates a vibrant and intricate scene. At its heart, delicate purple and pink flowers bloom alongside a realistic honeycomb and a finely detailed dragonfly, all rendered with meticulous attention to color and texture. Adding a mythical element, Medusa's head is intriguingly entwined within the roots, showcasing Stankard's signature blend of natural beauty and fantasy.

The composition is not only visually striking but also rich in symbolic meaning, reflecting themes of fertility and the mystical connection between nature and mythology. "Fertile Seeds" exemplifies Stankard's ability to capture entire ecosystems within glass, offering viewers a glimpse into a miniature world filled with life and wonder. This paperweight is a testament to Stankard's artistry, making it a cherished addition to any collection of fine glass art.

Measuring 2 1/2 inches in height and 3 1/4 inches in diameter, this piece is signed and dated 'Paul J. Stankard 2002' and also features a cane signature 'P Stankard', along with the title in cane. Purchase includes a certificate of authenticity from Modern Artifact.

About Paul Stankard

Paul Stankard has elevated the paperweight into a highly respected art form, earning recognition as one of the world's premier glass artists. His exceptional works are displayed in renowned institutions such as the Smithsonian Museum in Washington D.C., the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, and the Louvre in Paris.

Born in 1943, Stankard began his career crafting scientific instruments. In 1969, he transitioned to creating paperweights, seeking to apply his technical skills to more artistic pursuits. Through meticulous techniques, Stankard pioneered the inclusion of hyper-realistic botanicals in his paperweights, often leading viewers to mistake his glass flowers for real ones. Each element is crafted with meticulous attention to color and texture before being assembled. His artistry captures entire natural ecosystems, from intricate insects to delicate root systems.

In an art world often focused on modern trends, Stankard's timeless designs and stunning realism distinguish him. His work reflects a deep spiritual connection to botany, highlighting the beauty found in nature's most unexpected details. Beyond his glass artistry, Stankard is also an accomplished author, contributing poetry, articles, and two published books to the creative world.