Pip Cossette
Pip Cossette and Jan Small met for the first time in 2003 and soon became best friends and business partners. After several iced teas (none of which had “Long Island” in it) these two gals hatched a plan to share their mutual passion for glass fusing with the masses, and settled on the business name; “Two Lasses Glass Classes” (perhaps they did have one too many iced teas after all!).
Pip and Jan’s partnership is very collaborative and yet each Lass brings her own unique style to the business. When teaching they encourage students to experiment and develop their own individual approach to kiln forming without feeling overly constrained by conventional wisdom. “Building a factual knowledge base is essential”, says Pip, “but once you know the rules of the game, you’ll know how to break them successfully.” “We’re here to educate but we love to entertain too!” adds Jan, who is well known for her zany sense of humor.
When deciding what products to carry, their philosophy is simple; they carry only the items they use themselves. “It’s got to survive the Lass stress test” says Pip, “because we’re relying on those items to perform consistently in our studios and in our classroom!”
The Lasses also believe in good old-fashioned customer service and support, answering e-mails promptly, and providing advice and assistance wherever it’s needed. With just over six years in business, the Two Lasses have garnered a loyal fan base with both students and customers alike and have also received recognition from their peers which they both find very gratifying.
Read what customers and students are saying about the Lasses! (Source: Two Lasses Glass Classes)
5 Questions and Contact Information
1.) How is an idea born? For you, what is inspiration?
Actually, I try not to have a specific idea in place; it often seems to lofty a goal and can sometimes become limiting. I prefer to play with the glass and experience a "happy accident" than have any kind of game plan that will leave me fretting about the outcome. For me, inspiration is a little spark that is ignited in the mind and fueled by passion.
2.) How do you evaluate whether an idea is good or not?
I try not to over-think my ideas. I like to "jump in" and get my feet wet right off the bat though initially on a smaller scale until I can determine whether my idea is truly inspirational and bears repeating, or requires some further tweaking to achieve the desired result.
3.) What is your definition of "art"?
Art seems to have a very unique meaning for each one of us. And because of that, we see so many variations and adaptations in all forms of art. I am always delighted to find that despite being given the same tools and materials, and sitting within close proximity to each other, my students create such markedly different works of art! This reinforces my belief that art is extremely personal; we see it and create our own art in ways that express our own individuality.
4.) Does it pain you to let go of a piece you have sold?
No, not at all, though I know a number of very talented artists who are so attached to their work they almost cannot bear to part with it. When people visit me at my home they often ask to see some of my art, but I usually do not have anything to show them, as I am using the few pieces I have kept as examples in my studio classroom. I should add that I keep as many of the "disasters" as the successes. You cannot learn if you never make a mistake.
5.) What advice would you give to those just beginning?
Read! You don't have to memorize all the material (there is no test), but you do have to have a solid foundation/understanding of your art upon which you can build your talents. Books offer a wealth of information and are in my opinion, FAR more reliable than some of the well-intentioned musings found on the Internet. Joining a local art association or guild allows you an opportunity to spend some quality time with others who are interested in the same art form and who may be able and/or willing to help you get started. There are NO stupid questions, so ask questions (but please take notes)! Taking a class or course can also be very helpful, but ask about the teacher's credentials and/or experience and/or for references. Most importantly, don't' be afraid to jump in and get wet!!
http://www.igga.org/featured_artists/two_lasses/twolasses.htm
Best of eBay 2007 Winner - Kilns and Metalworks: Two-Lasses-Glass-Classes
Two Lasses Glass Classes has an on-line store at www.TwoLassesGlassClasses.com.
Pippa Cossette is an instructor for fused glass courses and classes are held at:
398 Interstate Ct
Sarasota, FL 34240
(941) 379-8333
(a local glass shop near the Fruitville Road library)
Originally on Don411.com
Comments