Kaleidoscope Konsort
Ka.lei.do.scope: an optical instrument that is rotated to produce a succession of symmetrical designs by means of mirrors reflecting the constantly changing patterns made by bits of colored glass and other objects at one end of the tube. Greek - kalos (beautiful) + eidos (form) + scope.
Kon.sort: 1. an ensemble of instruments from the same family. 2. harmony or agreement or accord
Kaleidoscope Konsort is the artistic venture of polymer clay artist Mary Rouse and stained glass artist Carol Warner. Their collaborative efforts produce one of a kind instruments that are beautiful works of art and precision optical devices.
Each kaleidoscope is constructed with either a brass tube or stained glass casing. All exterior designs by Mary Rouse are completely hand-formed by the artist using a polymer clay. Designs are achieved using several traditional techniques, including millefiori cane making.
Each element of the design is constructed by inlaying the clay into three dimensional patterns within a cane or loaf. Each piece is a unique work of art due to variation within the cane and the movement of the slices. An extrusion technique is used on some exteriors to form strands of color that swirl across the surface.
The interior optical system contains an aluminized front surface mirror, which is made by vacuum depositing a highly reflective aluminum coating onto the front of the glass. The light reflects off of the aluminized surface without passing through a distorting glass layer, thereby producing a clear and brilliant image. A precision-ground lens provides the correct focus for the length of the tube, and a clear glass window seals the tube to protect the mirror system from dust. The object chamber contains bits of colored glass, silver, brass, copper, polymer designs, jewelry, beads, and found objects that produce the unique, kaleidoscopic display. The objects in the chamber are in complete harmony with the kaleidoscope exterior.
Custom designs or themes can be incorporated into a kaleidoscope by special order. Please Contact Us for more details.
