Fool’s Gold by Josh Hargrave

Engineered illusion, forged in flame.

Retail Value $650

Dimensions 10″ H x 10″ W x 8″ D

Created during a live demonstration at SiNaCa Studios’ January 2024 Open Studios, Fool’s Gold is a sculptural exploration of form, illusion, and geological mimicry. Inspired by crystalline growth patterns found in minerals like pyrite and bismuth, the piece blurs the line between natural structure and digital design.

The form was blown into a custom wooden mold made from interlocking geometric shapes, resulting in its distinctive stepped profile. The surface was coated in iris glass powder and starved of oxygen during firing—a technique that reduces the glass to a rich metallic gold finish. The result is a shimmering, faceted vessel that evokes the look of pyrite, playing with the illusion of preciousness and the logic of mineral growth. Fool’s Gold gleams with a deep golden luster, its angular geometry catching light like a digital relic unearthed from the earth. The piece feels both ancient and futuristic, echoing the algorithmic beauty of nature while remaining unmistakably human-made.

Joshua Hargrave is a North Texas-based glass artist whose work investigates the language of architecture through the medium of glass. Drawing on a background in construction, he creates sculptures and installations that explore the tension between structure and nature.

“SiNaCa holds a special place in my heart. There’s no other nonprofit glass studio in North Texas doing what they do—so their role in sustaining and growing the glass community here is huge.” — Josh Hargrave

🔗 Want to see this piece come to life? Watch the January 2024 Open Studio Night recording with Josh and the team.

💛 Support SiNaCa Studios

Your bid supports SiNaCa Studios, an IRS-affirmed, 100% publicly supported 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to glass art education and community engagement.

Most pieces in this auction were created onsite during our Open Studios series—a vibrant initiative that brings together artists, students, and visitors to collaborate, learn, and create. These sessions fuel local economic activity, foster mentorship, and transform the studio into a living gallery where creativity thrives.

By bidding, you’re not just acquiring a unique work of art—you’re investing in a dynamic, community-driven ecosystem that empowers artists and enriches Fort Worth’s cultural landscape.

Winning bids above retail value will be provided a donation receipt for tax year 2025 for the amount above retail.