
William Ortman
Columbus, Ohio
Artist Statement
I am a glass artist whose work explores the expressive potential of color, form, and surface. I hold a BFA in Fine Art with a concentration in Glass Blowing from the Columbus College of Art and Design (2007). I was drawn to glass for its unparalleled ability to capture and transmit light, and I remain captivated by the medium’s capacity to layer hue, tone, and depth creating a three-dimensional chromatic experience that few other sculptural materials can achieve.
I work with traditional Italian glass techniques, including incalmo, cane work, and complex murrine, while drawing visual inspiration from Asian art and organic natural forms. My vessels and sculptural objects range from familiar silhouettes with intricate patterns to shell-like, nature-inspired forms that balance structural symmetry with organic texture. I often use sandblasting as a finishing process to reveal latent color and enhance the tactile qualities of the glass.
Collaboration is an integral part of my practice. Many pieces require multiple hands, reflecting both the communal nature of glassmaking and my ongoing engagement with the field. Each work is a unique exploration and part of an evolving progression toward refinement and discovery. For me, glass is both a discipline and a lifelong pursuit, and it is a pleasure to share that passion through my work.

William Ortman Glass Blowing Demonstration Creating a Crescent Moon









