Artist Statement

By combining the calculated instinct that glass forming relies on with a fresh-faced rise toward conceptual focus, both become physical records of my making process, forcing the visualization of internal opinions, questions, and admissions that are often sidelined by an intentionally packed calendar. I intentionally steer towards a reliance between the glass and supporting industrial elements like metal, wood, or shifting aggregate. The glass acts as an instrument in visualizing the dynamic thrill of balance across all of its contexts, allowing me to strive for cruising altitude across a sensitive triad of concept, craft, and genuine connection.

Bio

Santiago Mora is a glass artist based in Ohio. As a graduate of the glass program at The Ohio State University, Mora focuses on the intersections of perspective and balance, using the medium to create physical records of planned execution.

Mora is an Artist-in-Residence at the Belger Glass Annex (2026–2027) in Kansas City. His current work explores the architecture of modern aviation, often utilizing a visual language of self superimposition and balance to explore conflicting narratives. This conceptual framework is a central theme in his work.

Mora has extensive experience in studio operations, having served as the lead assistant to artist Jonathan Capps. In this role, he managed furnace charging, kiln scheduling, and hotshop assistance to Jonathan’s several lines of work. His versatile technical background in glass and metal fabrication also led to his selection as a 2026 Summer Work-Study Fellow at the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts.

His work has been exhibited at the Janice Charach Gallery and was recently included in the Ohio Craft Museum’s Best of 2026 exhibition. His sculpture is held in the permanent collection of the Evansville Museum of Arts, History, and Science, and his practice has been supported by an Ohio Designer Craftsmen Artist Scholarship. Mora served the community as an instructor at the Columbus Glass Art Center and a gallery assistant at Hawk Galleries.