Roots
These projects were done early in my career, when I was focused on traditional leaded, stained, and etched glass skills, techniques, and period styles.
A lesson from Joe
During the two years I worked (off and on) with Andy Maglia, we would occasionally visit his friend, the great architectural sculptor Corrado (‘Joe’) Parducci. After Andy passed away, I carried on in his studio to complete his unfinished commissions. I also continued to visit Joe, whose studio was just a few blocks down the street. One day I arrived while Joe was intently working on what was to be his last project---a large relief panel for the New York State capitol building. I waited quietly, exploring the astonishing array of maquettes, plaster molds, bronze castings and samples scattered throughout his workshop. Later, as we chatted over lunch in his studio library, I asked him “How is it that you can create original designs in so many different historical styles?” After a moment of thought, he said, “I spend a day or two...here with my books. I hypnotize myself to the style. Then, when I start to work, I am there in that time.”
Left: Door sidelight, Egyptian-influenced Art Deco style, Charfoos residence
Right: ‘Peony Bouquet’, Waltz residence
Entry hall skylight, McIntyre Residence, created from a sketch by Andrew R. Maglia
Floral vase in Art Nouveau style, commissioned by Nola Huse Tutag
Unless otherwise identified, all text and photos ©2009 Mark Talaba, all rights reserved.
