Gifted glass artists Mary Lynn Benz, Ligita Gulens, and Carole Pinard have shared a long friendship, bonding over their passion for glass art and their distinct creative approaches. Now, this talented trio of ladies has come together to create a special collaborative piece titled Garden of Reflections, with proceeds from its sale going to the Closer To Home campaign at Deep River & District Health.

Each of these remarkable women brings a unique approach to working with glass as a medium.

Mary Lynn specializes in fused glass, a technique that involves layering multiple pieces of glass and heating them in a kiln until they melt and fuse together, forming a single, cohesive piece from many smaller elements.

Ligita Gulens creates copper foiled stained glass, in which individual glass pieces are edged with thin copper foil and then soldered together creating a larger work.

Carole Pinard specializes in lead came stained glass. In this technique, individual pieces of glass are bonded together using strips of lead called cames, much like the stained glass windows we see in churches.

At one point or another, all three women have been members of the Valley Artisan Co-op. Carole also serves as the treasurer of the Library Arts Council keeping her connected to the vibrant artistic community here in Deep River and surrounding areas.

Garden of Reflections is described as “an original fused mosaic glass creation for outdoor or indoor” display. The meticulously crafted glass pieces sit atop a mirror, giving the work an illusion of infinite light. Set within a reclaimed, three-paneled window frame, it carries a rustic, cottage-like charm. But this piece is so much more.

This collaborative work speaks of spring and the hope that comes with it, shining light into the darkness after a long winter. It invites the viewer to pause and reflect on what brings them joy. Most importantly, it symbolizes the meaningful connections we form throughout our lives – especially the ones that endure.

Garden of Reflections is on display at the Deep River Town Hall and sells for $500. Proceeds from this sale will go to the Closer To Home campaign to furnish and equip the new 96-bed Long-Term Care home currently under construction at Deep River & District Health.

For more information or to purchase this work of art, please contact Carole Pinard at 613-584-1758