Carin Bacher

Totems, Masks, Glass Flamework

Fortunate to have grown up surrounded with the constant presence of both the Arts and nature, Carin was encouraged to explore and learn through her surroundings from an early age. Sitting before adjoining easels, one tall, one not so tall, a very patient father teaching his young daughter to paint in oils, will always be one of her most treasured memories.

Carin attributes her enduring appreciation and ongoing love of art and nature to her parents.

Carin sees the world as her mentor. As a totem she would be comprised in part of Whale, the Traveller. The opportunity to experience many different facets of life through travel has strongly influenced Carin’s perspective, inspiring diversity in her art. Fluent in several mediums she continually strives to grow and learn. Carin has studied at Haliburton School of the Arts, where she attends each summer. Carin currently works in Totems and Glass Flamework.

Originally influenced by West Coast carving, Carin’s approach to carving totems and masks reflects respect for the artform and the culture from which it originates. Understanding what sadly almost became a lost art, the significance and meaning of the inhabitants of the totem, the direction given by the wood being carved, all play an integral role in bringing the totem to life.

Glass Flameworking feeds Carin’s fascination with hot molten glass. Once molten, Carin must work both soft glass and Borosilicate to completion. Glass dances in flame as it is gathered, turned, twisted, bent, shaped or blown. Depth and dimension, color and light, ever moving, ever-changing, Carin’s focus is total until from the flame emerges the finished work.