Frank Thompson: Southwest Louisiana Artist Pioneering Fused Glass Wall Art
Frank Thompson, a native of Southwest Louisiana, meticulously crafts mesmerizing artworks from vibrant sheets of colored glass. A builder and contractor by trade, he transitioned to full-time stained glass artistry in 1982, earning acclaim for his church windows and bold, colorful glass crosses. In 2009, his career took an innovative turn.
A client's lament about lacking windows and natural light inspired Thompson to pioneer a new technique: mounting fused glass two inches from a polished aluminum backing. This setup reflects light through the glass, creating a stunning glow on any wall. He calls it Fused Glass Wall Art.
In his expansive studio on a serene property bordering Calcasieu and Beauregard Parishes—where he's lived most of his life and built a home for his wife Eva and their four grown children—Thompson works tirelessly. He especially thrives during quiet nighttime sessions.
“I create a mixed-media work,” Thompson explains. “The aluminum backing is polished to match the glass design, forming one cohesive unit that amplifies the piece's dynamics and energy.”
Thompson's creations are uniquely artistic. “Others make functional fused glass like bowls and plates, but few produce wall art,” he notes. “With no precedents, I innovated to achieve my vision, carving a niche for this spectacular, unseen artwork.”
Drawing from nature, his pieces evoke tropical island serenity with blues, greens, and vivid hues. Using dichroic glass that shifts colors by light and angle, Thompson infuses homes and businesses with positive energy and calm. Each named design includes multiples with subtle variations, an archived number, and certificate of authenticity. Custom commissions are also available.
His popular three-paneled triptych, “Boundary Between Earth and Sky,” captures life's essence. “Life flows steadily, then chaos hits—but beauty hides in that chaos; you just have to find it,” he reflects.
The process starts with an idea: sketching a design, creating a template, cutting glass pieces, layering on clear glass, and firing in a kiln for about 40 hours.
Thompson showcases his work at southern art festivals from Atlanta to Austin, including juried events like the October Bayou City Art Festival in Houston. Awards include Best of Show at the 2015 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and local spots like the Home Builders Association of Southwest Louisiana's January show.
Passionate about his craft, Thompson says, “It’s awesome to do what I love and support my family.”
Two pieces grace La Truffe Savage restaurant on W. Bayou Pines Drive off Lake Street. View more at www.frankthompson.com.
