I just had a stunning experience. I was invited to do a Carder Steuben presentation to the Art Lovers Club of the Ocean Side Country Club. This is a 1600 unit age 55 and over community. Since Oceanside is so far away from my home in Evansville, IN I planned on doing a power point picture presentation. So, Gene Kocis from the LA area, who had contacted me in response to an e-mail newsletter, was asked whether he wanted to join me and bring in some physical examples of many different types of Carder’s glass. Gene and his wife Rose quickly and happily volunteered.
Next, anyone who thinks art glass isn’t appreciated should know that as soon as word of this talk went out the room typically used for this club (35 seats) was inadequate for the immediate response. So, they then had to arrange for the dance room that could hold 65.
And, an enthusiastic audience it was. The presentation isn’t technical in nature. Just showing pictures and talking about the basics. The audience generated all kinds of questions and it just rolls. I think Gene & Rose had an equally delightful time showing off prized possessions. You learn all kinds of things. Rose is from the Corning area. In the pictures on the link below is a black lamp given to Rose’s mother by gaffer, Jimmy Lamana, as a wedding present in 1924. One lady was the granddaughter of the founder of Blenko. The point of all this is that there are many communities like this near each and every one of you.
These communities crave and seek out information on the likes of Carder Steuben. They love it and are the most appreciative audiences. We, the glass collecting community should be out there giving presentations. They’re somewhat easy to arrange; they’re easy because you just talk about what you know. The audience adores and appreciates the glass, which they know next to nothing about.
When I asked for a show of hands of who knew of Mr. Carder before the presentation, not a hand went up. When I asked about LCT, every hand went up. As collectors of one of the two most important and significant historic glass makers in the United States, we have an important story to tell and information to impart. These type settings are an ideal opportunity. Please follow up try one and then share with this newsletter.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cardersteubenclub/sets/72157603265967758