Photo: Courtesy of Alexandra Berger Clamons
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.
A desert dweller for the past 15 years, I translate my love of my desert surroundings into a line of Modern Stained Glass cacti and other desert inspired home decor. My work is inspired by my day to day environment as I strive to pay homage to Tucson’s amazing Sonoran Desert. Each piece evokes the personality of the desert and are great for plant lovers with green or black thumbs. In addition, every piece utilizes recycled materials, so my products are low footprint and high quality. I use mostly repurposed materials in my art – glass that has been passed down to me, upcycled mugs and pots, and recycled packaging – so you can feel good about your purchase.
What inspired you to become an artist?
I have always identified as an artist. I strive to live as lightly as I can. I think about every choice I make and how it will impact the larger picture – each plastic bag I refuse, each time I refill my metal water bottle, my choice not to have children. I bring these same ideals into my life as an artist. Most of the glass I use is vintage, all of the cups and mugs are repurposed, and I use all recycled packaging materials. When you purchase my art, you can be proud to know that you are doing good in the world and taking a small step to reduce our impact on the planet.
What is your speciality?
Modern Stained Glass decor inspired by the Sonoran Desert.
here do you take your inspiration from? Are you pursuing any themes?
All of my work is inspired by my Tucson, AZ surroundings – the Sonoran Desert. I used to make mostly potted stained glass cacti but once pandemic hit I had to pivot to keep myself and my customers engaged. I started working in Limited Edition themed collections that I continue to put out every few weeks. Some of my themes have included: Dia de los Muertos, Desert Birds, Sonoran Bees and Butterflies, Citrus Season, and more. It’s really fun to engage in a theme for a few weeks and then move on to explore other ideas.
Do you take on commissions and create bespoke designs?
I do custom orders as my schedule allows and always enjoy making something a little different from my usual realm. I have a 3-6 week turnaround for such projects.
Which project have you enjoyed working on the most so far?
Each time I create a new pattern and it comes out just the way I envision it in my head – that’s where the magic happens. It doesn’t always end up this way, so I relish when a piece truly feels like a “work of art”.
What do you want to achieve with your work and what are your wishes for the future?
To be honest, I know I won’t be able to make stained glass forever. It wears on your elbow and wrist, so for now, I’m enjoying every day with the artform. I look forward to seeing how my work evolves as my body changes with time – and hope I can keep creating into my old age.
Where can we find your work?
FB: @TheGlassDesert
IG: @TheGlassDesert
Photos: Courtesy of Alexandra Berger Clamons
