12 Mesmerizing Glass Orbs That Capture the Magic of Nature
We often find ourselves wishing we could hold onto nature’s most breathtaking moments—capturing a flower’s bloom or a quiet woodland scene in the palm of our hands. Artist Paul J. Stankard has turned that dream into reality. His delicate, translucent glass creations are so lifelike, they seem to pulse with the energy of the botanical worlds they contain.
Based in New Jersey, Stankard is widely regarded as a master of contemporary glass artistry—particularly in the realm of glass paperweights. A pioneer in the studio glass movement, he has spent over five decades reshaping how the world sees glass as a medium for fine art. “I’m dedicated to pursuing excellence through my work,” Stankard shared with DeMilked. “I’ve built on the tradition of antique French floral paperweights, which have long been prized across America and Europe.”
More info: PaulStankard.Com
#1 Tea Rose Bouquet Botanical with Mask, 2002, H. 5.5 inches, Photo: Douglas Schaible Photography
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He opened up about the roots of his unique artistry, revealing, “I was originally trained in scientific glassblowing, creating laboratory glass equipment for research purposes. But in my free time, I set up a small studio at home to explore the more creative side of glass. Over time, my artistic work gained enough momentum and recognition that I was able to leave the industry behind and fully dedicate myself to crafting floral glass paperweights and intricate glass sculptures.”
#5 Fecundity Bouquet, 2011, D. 4.0 inches, Photo: Ron Farina Photography
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#8 Emily Dickinson’s Bouquet Series; H. 4.5 inches x W. 3.0 inches; Photo: Jeff DiMarco
Sharing more about the intricate process behind his nature-inspired creations, Stankard explained, “The technique I use is called flame-working. I work with commercially available colored and clear glass, shaping it in a gas-oxygen flame that burns at 2200 degrees Fahrenheit.”
He also reflected on the personal roots of his inspiration: “As a kid, I loved wandering through the woods, marveling at nature’s mysteries and picking wildflowers to bring home to my mother. Those early experiences became the foundation for my glass art.”
Despite struggling with dyslexia and facing challenges in school, Stankard found his own path to knowledge. “I’ve educated myself by listening to audiobooks—mainly the Western canon, as well as art and poetry,” he shared. “I’m a passionate admirer of Walt Whitman and his poetry.”
#9 Honeybee Swarm with Flowers and Fruit, D. 6.0 inches, 2012; The Art Institute of Chicago Rubloff Collection; Photo: Ron Farina Photography
#10 Homage to Walt Whitman: Morning Glory Bouquet Orb; 2008, D. 6.0 inches; Photo: Jeff DiMarco
#11 Summer Bouquet with Prickly Fruit, 2012, D. 4.0 inches, Photo: Ron Farina Photography
#12 Golden Orb Floral Triptych, 2009; W. 7.25″ x H. 6.0″ x D. 4.5″; courtesy of The Robert M. Minkoff Foundation; Permanent collection of the Glass Museum, Tacoma, WA
Stankard’s work has earned international acclaim and now resides in the permanent collections of more than 80 museums worldwide. In addition to his artistic achievements, he has authored four books, with his latest titled “Inspiration from the Art of Paul J. Stankard: A Window Into My Studio and Soul,” offering readers an intimate glimpse into his creative process and personal journey.
