Joanie Karsch was
raised in Bozeman, Montana. Art has always played an important
role in her life. It wasn't until high school that Joanie's
interest in art began to blossom. In art class she was more
interested in creating with her mind than the props set before
her. Designing a few pieces of jewelry was exciting until she
discovered what it was like to take a mallet and chisel to a log or
piece of granite. For some years that followed Joanie dedicated
herself to her marriage and the raising of two children.
The medium of Stained Glass was always the desire of her heart.
After many visits to Europe, the many cathedrals, the museums, she
decided that was exactly what she wanted to challenge - "the
creations of Art in Glass".
Joanie never did take this challenge as a hobby. No, she
enrolled in a basic course in the techniques of cutting, grinding, and
assembly. She just "ran with it", said a
friend. She spent no less than 10 - 12 hours a day, for the first
three years, just trying to master the skills and craftsmanship of art
glass.
Joanie opened her own business, Karsch Kreations Stained Glass, in
1995. Within three months she entered a piece in the county fair
and won third-place. Since that time she has entered many art
shows and been awarded first-place numerous times. She has even
entered art shows that didn't have a "stained glass" category
and her work was greatly received. She also displays her work at
art galleries and wineries.
Joanie has developed into a glass artist and has been commissioned to
create work for three wineries and numerous homes. Joanie loves
her work and desires for all to see and enjoy the beauty of the colors,
textures, and creations of "Art in Glass".
