Jennifer C. Elek

Seattle, WA

On view at the Bellevue Arts Museum

Jen Elek is a studio artist and educator based in Seattle. Elek investigates interpersonal themes and the notion of community by creating objects and installations of colorful glass and neon light employed as a non-verbal form of communication. Jen has been a member of the Northwest artist community since moving from Bethlehem, PA to Seattle in 1995. Elek has traveled to Canada, Japan, Australia, and throughout the United States teaching glassblowing workshops. Jen has worked in the studio with many notable artists including, Dale Chihuly, Ginny Ruffner, Richard Royal and was a key member of Italian master Lino Tagliapietra’s glass blowing team for fifteen years. Jen’s involvement in Northwest Art organizations include; Pilchuck Glass School, The Museum of Glass in Tacoma, and Hilltop Artists. Elek was also guest lecturer at University of Washington in Seattle. Her work has been exhibited at The Museum of Glass in Tacoma, Tacoma Art Museum, and Pittsburgh Glass Center. Jen is represented by the Traver Gallery in Seattle. Jen maintains a studio in South Seattle with her husband Jeremy Bert.

Native Species

Wall-mounted neon montage of multiple elements that depict the native flora and fauna of the Pacific Northwest. Each element will draw 3 amps 120 volts.