Deeply rooted in Chinese culture and Far Eastern philosophy, these two concepts shine through the complexities of Dr. Xue’s work, and serve as a source of inspiration and aesthetic direction. It is also apparent she is influenced by Western education as the practicalities of the work are rooted in Western glass techniques and methodology.
The Gather series - Angel is Waiting, which originated from a previous set of work, is a reference to the birth of her daughter. Scientific glass tubes, fused and slumped together, are gathered like sheaves of corn to form a pair of wings. They are intriguing forms: a celebration of new life as the wings represent at once the wings of angel - an image of sanctity and protection in Western culture - and that of a butterfly wing - a Chinese symbol of rebirth. In this case the rebirth of Xue’s glassmaking after a long illness.
--Quote from the comments of Dr. Max Stewart