About The Artists

Arlene Phillips has worn many hats in her career. Originally from Pennsylvania, Arlene attended the Philadelphia College of Art. Due to monetary restraints, she put her artistic life on hold to enter the U.S. Navy.  After serving nine years of active duty, she completed her education under the GI Bill with a degree in Psychology from the University of Georgia. Arlene began a new chapter in life, focusing her career in financial management. She was well-suited for the required attention to detail, but it lacked the creativity Arlene longed for.  In a life-changing moment, Arlene stepped away from this career and focused on developing her interest in fused glass. After years of studying the fused glass process, Arlene adapted the technique into artistic functional lighting.

Wanda Hensley is an Asheville, North Carolina native who moved to Georgia many years ago. Wanda's career began in a small company in Northeast Georgia which led to many years in management. She reached a point in her career where the management position no longer satisfied her; she had the desire to pursue something more challenging and dynamic. Metal work intrigued Wanda, and she began an apprenticeship as an industrial mechanical welder. She quickly picked up the trade, which led to an inspiring and remarkable hobby. Wanda now works with metal as an art form, shaping each piece into an enduring display of her life’s passion.