Cathy Strokowsky, is a prominent Montreal-based artist, who has dedicated her career to exploring the dynamic possibilities of glass, showcasing a remarkable journey through education, extensive professional experience, and a robust exhibition history. Her distinctive work in glass has garnered international recognition, solidifying her place in the contemporary art scene.

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Education and Artistic Development

Cathy is a graduate of Espace Verre, a three year DEC Program at CEGEP du Vieux Montréal (1996-1999). This formal education was consistently supplemented by specialized training with leading figures in the glass world. She sought advanced instruction in diverse techniques, including lampworking with Shane Fero (2006) and Susana Plum (2002), solid glass techniques with Eis Frantisek (2003), kiln forming with Gil Reynolds (1995), and glass blowing with Laura Donefer (1994). Her commitment to expanding her skills continued into 2020 with a course in torchworked blown glass with Eric Goldschmidt, demonstrating a lifelong dedication to her craft.

 

Professional Contributions and Studio Practice

 

 A significant milestone in her career was co-founding Verre ni Verre Studio in Montreal in 1999 where she and her bussiness partner create unique glass giftware.

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A Storied Exhibition History

Cathy Strokowsky's work has been a consistent presence in major national and international exhibitions. From 1999 to 2015, her pieces were featured in numerous prestigious shows, including frequent appearances at SOFA Chicago (Sculpture Objects Functional Art and Design) and SOFA New York, both highly regarded platforms for contemporary art. She was a regular participant in the Annual Canadian Glass Show at West End Gallery in Victoria, BC, and held several solo and group exhibitions at Galerie Elena Lee in Montreal, including her solo show "CONVERSATION" in 2011. Other notable exhibitions include "ARTFORM" in Palm Beach, Florida, and "Hot Glass" in Toledo, Ohio. This extensive exhibition record underscores the consistent demand and appreciation for her innovative glass art.

 

Critical Acclaim and Publications

 

Strokowsky's contributions to the field of glass art have also been recognized in print. She was featured in "Contemporary Canadian Glass" in 2008 with an article titled "Strokowsky in Motion" by Heather Ritchie. Her work was also highlighted in the Glass Gazette (GAAC) in 2003 and in articles for Métiers D'art de Vivre and Fiberarts, The Magazine of Textiles, further solidifying her impact on the contemporary art dialogue. Her engagement with the artistic community extends to lecturing, including a slide presentation at the Glass Art Association of Canada Annual Conference in 2003.

Cathy Strokowsky's career reflects a deep passion for glass, marked by continuous learning, dedicated studio practice, and a celebrated presence in the global art scene.