Taylor Backes was conceived in 1982 by Karla Trinkley and Will Dexter. Both of whom were making and showing their work in fine art galleries; however, they wanted to pursue an alternative body of work geared towards the design and consumer market.
In order to separate this new work from their personal pieces Taylor Backes, the name derived from the maiden names of their respective mothers, was introduced.
Immediately successful, the collaboration has led to work made with the highest quality craftsmanship and an eye toward fine design. As Taylor Backes evolved new designs were introduced, some of which are one of a kind and more a reflection of Dexter-Trinkley's individual artwork.
Today many of Taylor Backes' pieces are actually signed by the artist and Taylor Backes.
Will Dexter and Karla Trinkley have exhibited their work both nationally and internationally. Their objective in co-founding Taylor Backes studio was to continue developing own individual styles, collaborate with other glass artists, and produce distinctive innovative work.
Both Will and Karla received BFA degrees from the Tyler School of Art and MFAs from the Rhode Island School of Design. They've lectured and taught at Tyler, RISD, the Pilchuk Glass School in Seattle and at the Penland School of Craft in Penland, NC.
Their work can be found in the permanent collections of The Philadelphia Museum of Art, The American Craft Museum, The Corning Museum of Glass and the Smithsonian Institute, as well as respected collections across the globe.