Music and art both influence the independent personality of Richard Braley. "I was always getting into trouble for drawing, ever since kindergarten. In high school my art took form through my favorite subject, wood shop. But my introduction to art glass came through a three-year independent study program at Central Washington State in glass blowing.

In 1987, Richard continued his glass blowing education at California State University, Chico. However, while in Chico, he visited Orient & Flume and found himself fascinated by the quality of the glass. He was soon hired to take charge of the company's Batch/Melting duties.

During his apprenticeship, Richard prepared the daily batches, repaired kilns and rebuilt glory holes. He closely observed the techniques and skill of the master glass designers working their craft. It was a learning period that eventually led to a change of job classification and transfer to the blow shop. His first design-"Music", a tribute to the 3/16th note, became quite popular with music lovers throughout the United States.

Richard has developed into a unique designer through perseverance and commitment. The satisfaction he derives from creating his art is important to him, as is the friendship of his fellow artists at Orient & Flume. "I'm basically inspired by the same leading glass designers as everyone else. The past and present introductions to the art process keep evolving, but originality is your own blueprint. That's what I strive for. It's ongoing."

Currently, Richard is exploring sculptural interpretations of locally grown Gourds and Squash.

www.orientandflume.com