SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Fire Arts, Inc., will host a reception open to the public to celebrate exhibits by potter Dr. Emma Wang and glass artist Kiva Ford.

Wang’s exhibit is titled “Upstream,” and Ford’s is titled “Glass Artistry.”

These special exhibits will be open Sept. 4 to Oct. 30. The opening reception will be offered from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4.

 

Dr. Emma C. Wang

Dr. Emma C. Wang’s love of the arts came early in her childhood when she was placed in multiple art classes at the age of 10. This was due, in part, to the language barrier she had as a new immigrant to the United States.

“I have indulged in arts and crafts ever since. The fish is a symbol of prosperity for the Chinese and, thus, my gravitation towards them as a subject was natural. My up-and-coming show is titled ‘Upstream,’ in keeping with my ever-present fish theme,” she said.

“Upstream” represents life’s challenges and our perseverance in overcoming these challenges. I would like to dedicate this show to those individuals who have not only managed to survive their struggles, but who have made a success of themselves.”

Wang is a board-certified family practice physician who is now working in the field of addiction. She attended Michigan State University for undergraduate and medical studies. She has an extensive travel history throughout Europe and Asia, which includes a one-year residency in Berlin, Germany. She is Chinese-American who was born in Seoul, Korea and is now a resident of Granger, where she shares a home with her husband and three children.

 

Kiva Ford

Kiva Ford’s passion with glass began early in life, and was anchored when he received his college degree in scientific glassblowing. Through years of work creating complex glass instruments for use by scientists, he has perfected his precision and technique in manipulating glass.

Beyond the scientific community, Kiva is more commonly known for his exquisite glass goblets, bottles, pendants and vessels. Kiva’s artistic work is influenced by his interests in history, mythology, and the natural world.