Arts Commission honors stained glass artist Will Hamm

The Arlington Heights Arts Commission announces that local artist Will Hamm has been chosen as this year's winner of the commission's fourth annual Cultural Arts Award. Hamm was presented with the award during the Arts Outreach event hosted by the commission Friday, Nov. 7, at the Arlington Heights Village Hall.

The award was given in recognition for Hamm's substantial and exceptional art works given to Arlington Heights, and the many ways he has given back to the community. Hamm has lived in Arlington Heights for 42 years and always had an interest in the arts and architecture.

He perfected his skills in stained glass by choosing professionals to instruct him in specific techniques, such as structure and reinforcement, painting and kiln firing, sandblasting, soldering and installations.

Will, in turn, taught his craft at Harper College for more than 25 years and demonstrated his skills to school groups, Scouts, adult organizations and other interested individuals.

In presenting the award, Arts Commissioner Toni Higgins-Thrash said, "The Village of Arlington Heights is blessed to have several of Will Hamm's creations in public and commercial settings. His work graces many churches, schools, homes and businesses in the Chicago area and throughout the United States. He finds stained glass fascinating because of the intensity of color and the way it deepens as the light brightens, splashing different hues across a room."

Hamm thanked the Arts Commission, his family and Lynnea Semasko, who nominated him.

"To be in the company of Fran Volz, Joe Burlini and Jack Musich is quite an honor," he said, referring to the previous Cultural Arts Award winners.

"To be able to design, or come up with a concept and then develop it, build it, and then install it is a very satisfying process. I have also enjoyed teaching my craft. It is amazing to see how my students have taken these skills and made panels that are truly beautiful."

The annual Village of Arlington Heights Cultural Arts award is based on a candidate's past or present relationship with the Arlington Heights Community; his or her resume; accomplished local and regional artistic achievements and, in some instances, national and international.

To nominate a candidate for the 2015 Cultural Arts Award, contact Arts Commission liaison Derek Mach at dmach@vah.com or call (87) 368-5232.

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