Stained Glass Artist · Anoka, Minnesota
Sam Teff is a stained-glass artist from Anoka, Minnesota. Growing up he was always surrounded by nature and fascinated with art and creative projects. These influences guide his current work as he finds inspiration in nature but still continues to explore new avenues for creation. Sam first got introduced to stained glass through his grandfather, yet he didn't learn the trade until he took a class at Anoka Ramsey Community College. Since then, he has been pursuing and expanding his knowledge of the medium. Working with his hands in a creative field is very important to him. He is always aspiring to make something completely original and unique.
Sam has had his work shown at exhibitions such as the Career Art Gallery and the All-Student Juried Exhibition at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, Minnesota. He has also had the opportunity to exhibit his work in the Two Rivers Art Fair in Ramsey, Minnesota and the St. Peter Art Stroll in St. Peter, Minnesota.
Artist Statement
I primarily work with stained glass, and I aspire to bring this structural material to life through dynamic designs, the manipulation of light and organic shapes. I first got introduced to the medium from a class I took when I was 16 — it immediately captured me. I love the labor that goes into each piece and the reward from finishing a new work. It's exciting how stained glass allows me to warp and change light.
Much of my work relies on abstracting the world around me. Within glass, nothing is completely realistic — simplifying and abstracting is vital to my creative process. Design is the most important step when creating my work. After committing to a design and starting the process, there is no deviation, as cutting glass is a permanent step. Examining color is also very important when working with glass designs; a lot of the time, this is what makes or breaks a project.
I find inspiration from the art deco movement. Art deco translates to stained glass naturally — a lot of art deco is sharp geometric angles and lines. I have been inspired by these designs and ideas and do my best to work them into a lot of my own projects. I feel as if they bring an element to my work that draws people in and provides a lot of visual interest while also maintaining the inherent rigidity of glass.
For commissions, inquiries, or just to talk about glass, reach out through the contact page or find Sam on Instagram at @samtefff.