About Us
Marcia Kmack
A degree in graphic arts has taken me in many directions over the years. I’ve worked as a magazine layout artist, game box designer, cartographer, potter, and K-6 elementary art program developer.
No other media, however, has held my attention like glass. I’ve worked exclusively with Italian glass from Murano, making beads for over 20 years. Originally, my teaching studio was in Cave Creek AZ, now my solo studio is at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, in Pagosa Springs CO. My style is greatly influenced by geometry, color, and the rhythm of repeating shapes. I feel that each bead stands alone as a tiny art form or strung together, they become wearable sculptures.
Phoenix Magazine, March/April 2003. 20 Perfect Days, #3 The art Collector.
1000 Glass Beads, Lark Books. 2004
Bead Review 2005, Brad Pearson
Louisville Glassworks, Louisville KY. ‘Passing the Flame’ 2006
Musee de France, Berck. ‘Verre & Mer’ 2006
Symmetry Gallery, Saratoga Springs, NY, ‘The Beautiful Bead’ 2006
Sonoran Glass School, Tucson, AZ, 2019 Flame Off. 2nd Place - Neon Necklace
Glass Artists of Colorado, 2019. 1st Place - Wearable Sculpture
Gerry Kmack
I have been a serious woodworker for over 30 years. In 2006, I sold my software engineering business so that I could pursue woodworking on a full-time basis.
My work is heavily inspired by Marcia, my wife & lifelong partner. Marcia’s love for strong graphic design is reflected in much of my work. My own background in engineering & technical design brings a love of geometry, proportion, and extreme precision. Overall, the intent for every piece that I make is to produce something that is both functional and beautiful.
When I build a piece, I begin with an idea, which leads to a detailed design. Once the design is complete, I must answer the question “how can I make that?” Because my approach is entirely focused on the end result, the methods, tools, etc. used are secondary decisions: I use whatever I need to accomplish my end goal. Most projects include a mix of antique hand tools, traditional woodworking equipment, and 4-axis CNC. In many cases, new methods must be invented to accomplish some aspect of the design (I love that part).
My past commissioned work includes studio/custom furniture & custom cabinets. More recently, I have been interested in producing functional kitchen art. This includes cutting boards, bread & cheese boards, wine stoppers, etc. My interest in these items stems from my belief that everyday items can be both useful and beautiful.
Everything that I make, from high-end studio furniture, to more affordable cutting boards, etc., reflects the same high level of dedication to solid, functional designs and quality workmanship.