Firehouse Blue

Blue airbrushed ceramic enamel panels march up the back corner of the Firehouse Center Arts building at 4444 Railroad Ave. Rising 30 feet from ground level to the top of the building, 22 panels form an architectural cornerstone.  Architectural Glass Artist, Martin Donlin employs his considerable knowledge of colored glass and its mysterious light-refracting properties to guide the eye through abstract images.  Donors Gary and Nancy Harrington recognized Donlin’s world acclaim, awarding him the commission to create two glass art pieces for the 2010 Grand Opening of the Firehouse Arts Center.  The companion of Firehouse Blue is Firehouse Red at the front of the Arts Center.

In the sunlight, the top panels appear to be darker with shades of blue/purple but the decent to lower panels reveal a river of light blue interrupted by puffs of white. Fine threads of yellow and delicate specks dance through the blue colors. Donlon’s approach was to create an artwork that was fresh and contemporary, looking forward to the future with a positive, bright, and optimistic vision. At night the panels are aglow with white light shadows against a blue background, complimenting the backside blue-lit marque letters announcing Firehouse Arts Center. The combined colors spill onto the patio and offer ample light to guide visitors into the Arts Center.

Martin Donlin was born in Hockley Essex England to Irish immigrant parents. He studied Architectural Stained Glass at Swansea College, South Wales UK from 1984-1987.  Since then, he has been chasing light capturing its play through color. Donlon’s artworks are extensive and include both massive works in airports, government buildings, and hospitals to small spaces for prayer and reflection. His team of highly skilled artisans gives life to Martin Donlin’s vision, creating works relevant to the environment with a direct sensitivity to the surroundings.   Firehouse Blue faces trees and bushes that give way to a meandering sometimes dry creek bed.

Jan Coleman-Knight