Minneapolis artist Brian Western has developed a way to turn empty glass bottles into sculptural jewelry and suncatchers using a method he terms “poor-man’s slumping,” in deference to more formal kiln-formed glass techniques. To create his trademark leaf-shaped works, Brian combines three of his favorite activities: studying leaves, listening to music and enjoying local and exotic brews. When assembling his delicate – and accurate – compositions he is inspired by instrumentals as he traces the lines of actual found leaves onto the curved sides of empty bottles, attentively coupling species and brand (oak leaves are often made from Pilsner Urquell bottles, for example.) After cutting the leaf elements from the glass, he rejoins them with lead-free solder and copper foil. Fishing lure elements are incorporated as hangers, allowing the piece to fully revolve when suspended.

Brian applies a similar process when creating geometric mobiles, holiday ornaments and custom commissions. For example, his fish – cut and pieced from fine iridescent Kokomo and Glashutte Lamberts opal flashed glass – are made to the accompaniment of accordian music.