About Carmen Komish
I grew up in Watson Lake, a small town located on the Alaska Highway just inside the Yukon border. I have many great memories of living in Watson Lake, and keep in touch with friends that are still there and many that have moved away.
I wasn't satisfied with my life and odd jobs so I went back to school when I was 30 to became a Veterinary Technician. I worked in Whitehorse in my profession for 15 years, and just loved it. The veterinary practice that I was employed closed, and I decided to start a new career.
I opened Aurora Stained Glass and Supplies store in 2004, and wanted to learn everything glass including fusing and making glass beads. I took my first lampwork class at Andrighetti Glass Works in Vancouver in 2005 and just knew I found my medium. It's been a huge learning experience, but since going full-time this April, I feel I've improved by leaps and bounds.
I have been fortunate to be able to travel and take lampwork classes from a few of the well known bead artists such as Jeri Warhaftig, Brad Pearson, Mary Lockwood, and Leah Fairbanks. I'm largely self-taught through books, on line tutorials and lots of practice.
Each bead is individually made with Effrete glass rods using an oxygen/propane Minor torch. I also incorporate other elements such as silver foils and mesh, gold foil, frit, and dichroic glass in my beads. All of my beads are annealed in my kiln for strength and durability, and are carefully cleaned of bead release.
I closed my store the end of February 2009, due to the economic downturn and the desire to work from home. During my 4 years at the store, I met and taught many talented stained glass artisans. I loved the energy and sense of accomplishments we all shared. I still sell stained glass and supplies, and welcome any orders. .
Lately, my fused glass is reserved for pendants, purse hangers, and pocket vases. I do like the art of fusing, but lately my lampworking is taking precedence.
I work from my studio in my home, which I share with my DH Mark, and one old lady Chihuahua, "Tink".
My two sons, Graham and Ryan (who were born in Watson Lake) live in the sunny Okanagan.
Aurora's Glass is dedicated to quality and durability. I hope you enjoy my creations as much as I enjoyed creating them for you!
