Transparency, Brilliance, and Stained Glass Windows

During biblical times, it was said that gold was comparable in worth to that of common glass that we know today. Revolutions in the creation of glassware; however, have commercialized this previously rare product into an easily producible material. In the past, glass was a rare substance that originated in Mesopotamia and migrated into Egypt where it was more efficiently created. 

The Egyptians used a method called core-forming. A shaped core was made of clay and dung, then molten glass was wrapped around it and shaped by rolling it on a smooth surface. (Kinsalecrystal)

Not until the end of the first century BC was the production of common glass made more exquisite and rapid with the invention of glass blowing. A hollow tube was used to mold and shape molten glass  in this primitive process.  This method likely originated along the Mediterranean coast near Syria and backed with widespread support from the Roman Empire. As this civilization grew, so too did the availability and affordability of glass products up until the fall of the thrown where it then hit a great downfall. Glass production was temporarily restored; however, when stained glass was discovered and used in the decoration of Cathedrals.

For a while, Venice became the glass center of Europe as far as production and exhibition. In time, new discoveries in glass formation changed this. One example is the addition of lead oxide to molten glass to produce a more brilliant shine than had ever been witnessed in history thus far. Also, Ireland achieved a renown reputation as skilled glass makers by utilizing the pure white sand resources to produce a clearer glass than from common silica.

Modern advancements in glass making have lead to the artistic exposition of glass blowing. One name, above all others, reigns as the master of glass art. Dale Chihuly is an international artist famed for amazing revolutionary creations dating from early 90's to modern day.

One installation that deserves recognition over all others, is the famed Chihuly in the Light of Jerusalem exhibition. This project was started with the goal of honoring the great land where glass was born. The location of development was the ancient Tower of David which drew over one million visitors to witness the artwork. A few sites that require emphasis are the Crystal mountain. This proves to be one of Chihuly's tallest projects and even features the ability to enter the mountain and view the glass in awe from the inside. Along with this creation are the development of the Persian Ceiling and the splendid blue and white towers nicknamed, the Medusa Towers.

Fine Dining: A look into the Culinary Arts

In this modern era, there is a multitude of inconsiderate, inept people who underestimate and under glorify the amazing artistic process of cooking. Although it used to be common knowledge and irrefutable necessity, there is a substantial portion of the population that is either incompetent or untrained in the unique process of culinary preparation. It is a dying art form that has been on the decline since the modern emphasis of "food on the go" and microwavable pre-cooked meals. It is this disregard that I feel warrants an informative piece on the history and advancements in the culinary field.

Cooking began simultaneously with the discovery of fire. Originally, the purpose of this act was to soften the structure of meats, vegetables, and other indigestible foods in order to simplify the intestinal process of nutrient absorption.  The origin of this art comes mainly from ancient writings.  "Among these is notably the memoirs of the Children of Israel while journeying in the wilderness, and their hankering after the "flesh-pots of Egypt."" There was an aura of respect that was given to those who could claim expertise under the then primitive methods of cooking

When speaking of the tactics of cooking, it is important to note that the different forms came about in order of simplicity. For example, broiling was likely the first method of preparation due to the numerous applications and its ability to seal in the delicate flavors of meats while maintaining a basic process. After this came roasting, followed by a plethora of new strategies such as baking, boiling, and stewing.

While for many, cooking has become a waste of time or something left for chefs, caterers, and fast food employees, the modern home cook is now able to equip his or herself with kitchen utensils that have simplified many of the difficult steps in food preparation. Basters, slow cookers, electric stoves, coffee makers, pizza ovens, and the most notorious of all, the microwave oven, are all accessible appliances that have changed the face of cooking completely. The supply of these products has become a business in itself with brand name merchandise such as the popular food processor, the Magic Bullet.

With the simplicity and convenience of fast food, instant meals, and and the availability of processed snack foods, it's no wonder that cooking is an uncommon talent among many people these days. However, this is one chef that refuses to let that art die and will continue to train and develop my talents further. With this goal in mind, the best advice I can muster is bon appetit!

The Fragility of Artwork

One thing Minnesotans hold closer to their heart than the loon, the lady slipper, or even the fact that we have 10,000 lakes, is our ability to withstand and even fight the cold. Not only do we have the perseverance to trudge on through the winter months, but we even make it a point to enjoy the fluffy white snow and crystal clear ice that come with the bitter climate. Some people like to go sledding, some enjoy figure skating, and one thing every Minnesotan can agree on is their love for a good snowball fight. Far superior to all of these; however, is the detailed, exquisite act of ice sculpting.

While on the subject of Minnesota, there is a necesity in mentioning the beautiful tradition of the yearly Ice Palace. This had been a tradition held as the pride of Minnesota ever since 1886 when the first crowning of King Boreas and first artic celebration took place. Legend has it that this royal king named the wonderful tundra landscape of Minnsota his homely realm. This move; however, upset his nemesis, Vulcanus Rex, to the point where he decided to put a stop to the festivities. So after ten days of celebration, the Ice Palace was invaded and the king forced to disband the gathering and return to Mount Olympus, thus ending the Winter Carnival.

In reality, patriotic Minnesotans know that back in 1885, a reporter wrote that the land was "another Siberia, unfit for human habitation" during the winter. In order to refute this statement and prove their gumption, the citizens of Minnesnowta put together a carnival aimed at bringing the people together from far and wide for a celebration that could warm up the chilly heart of January.

Not to be caught off topic, but it seems that the real area of interest has gotten a little foggy at this point. Ice sculpting is an art that more than any other art form, is exremely fragile. Not just do to the fact that ice is easily breakable, but that unless stored at subzero temperature, the standard ice sculpture has a lifespan of roughly eight hours. With such an easily crackable substance, it's a wonder that artists are able to create such detailed work. The tool used in the development of one of these monuments include chainsaws, ice chisels, die grinders, angle grinders, and speacialized drill bits for detail.