by Henry Lane Hull
In the fifth century, B.C., Protagoras and the Greek sophists are credited with coming up with the adage, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” According to that maxim, those acquainted with the art of Lynn Savarese must have their eyes filled to the limit. Her media are various forms of glass art, in which area she is a recognized master.
For the past 15 years, Lynn has worked from her studio near Heathsville. In addition to crafting her own pieces, she has taught art glass to many classes of eager students. Lynn began working in glass while recovering from a serious horseback riding accident back in 1990. Initially, she worked with cold glass, producing the traditional forms of leaded stained glass in windows, doors, and hanging panels, from pieces of glass that she would cut and form to bring about the design she envisioned.
In recent years Lynn has moved into using hot glass as her medium. In that area, she arranges pieces of glass in ceramic molds according to the pattern she has in mind, then fires them in a kiln. The results are spectacular works, that appear to be oil paintings, when in reality they are hardened glass. She is undaunted in bringing forth art forms that leave viewers in awe. As with Napoleon Bonaparte, who, when asked what had been his favorite battle replied, “The next one,” Lynn does not rest on her impressive laurels, but begins the process of conceiving the next one that is to come.
She hails from a family long dedicated to military service. She was born on an Air Force base in Oklahoma as her parents were passing through to her father’s next assignment. She spent her early life growing up on bases in this country and abroad. Not surprisingly, with that background she entered the Air Force herself, which led to her meeting her late husband, Jim, a native of Williamsburg, and a career service member as well.
Both Lynn and Jim rose to the rank of chief master sergeant, retiring after 32 years of active duty. Thereafter, they bought property in the Northern Neck, where they built a stately home and planted engaging gardens in a modified natural approach. Sadly, five years later, Jim died unexpectedly, and was buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
Lynn remained here, doing her artistry, teaching her classes, and exhibiting the proofs of her wonderful creativity in regional art shows, until her recent move back to her family’s home area in northern Wisconsin, accompanied by her constant sidekick, Jamie, a magnificent golden-colored German Shepherd. His appearance immediately puts a stranger in trepidation, until the person realizes that he is a pushover for petting.
Lynn’s departure leaves a significant gap in the Northern Neck Artisan Trail, the entity that affords tourists and natives alike the opportunity to visit the studios and workshops of our numerous gifted painters, sculptors, woodworkers and, of course, stained glass makers. She has found her joy in sharing her talents with the many students who have followed her into the world of stained glass.
Truly, the Northern Neck’s loss is Wisconsin’s gain, for Lynn will be setting up a new studio, teaching new students, and bringing forth new objects of beauty that capture the interest and enthusiasm of her followers. For us in the Northern Neck, Bob Hope’s theme song is the most appropriate farewell, “Thanks for the Memory,” Lynn.
