Oksana Puzhalova was born in Russia but has been living in Cyprus for the past eight years. More than 15 years have passed since she first picked up a torch. Her journey began with an intuitive impulse. As a self-taught artist, Oksana spent years mastering the art of soft glass in the lampwork (flameworking) technique through trial and error, uncovering the secrets of controlling fire on her own. Until that moment, she had no prior experience with glass, but the sudden thought, "I want to make this myself," defined her life for years to come.

Projects and Recognition For Oksana, it is important not only to create art but also to be an active part of the global professional community. In recent years, this dedication has led to significant milestones:

• In 2026, Oksana was invited as a demonstrating artist to the International Flameworking Conference.

• In 2025, she participated in the Glass Craft & Bead Expo in Las Vegas.

• In May 2026, she taught a week-long class at Salem Community College.

Two of her pieces are held in the permanent collection of the gallery at Salem Community College (New Jersey, USA), and her work is also featured at the Wheaton Arts cultural center.

Technique and Philosophy When working with soft glass, Oksana is most fascinated by the creation of fine detail, depth of color, and texture. She loves to explore complex shapes, crafting intricate layered flower petals, owl wings, or butterfly wings.

For her, glass is a unique material that demands a sensitive dialogue rather than rigid subordination. Her process is a daily search for balance between technical precision and the acceptance of imperfection. Every day, she learns to feel the material and anticipate its reactions, a process that requires complete emotional dedication.

The Meaning Behind Her Art It is essential to the artist that every piece evokes genuine joy—what she calls a "smile of the heart." Sometimes, working on a custom commission can be challenging, but over time, Oksana receives updates from people for whom her jewelry has become something much more than a simple accessory—serving as a small source of light or a token of support during difficult times.

It is precisely for these moments that she creates. For the author, it is priceless to know that somewhere far away, someone smiled while looking at a piece of glass that holds a piece of her soul. Oksana wants everyone who holds her creations to feel the warmth, care, and love that she infused into them within the flame of her torch.