I am fascinated by glass making and glass blowing, taking simple ingredients and lots and lots of heat to make something stable and beautiful. Glassmaking at Jamestown Virginia dates back to 1608. I visited the glassworks in the 1970's with my grandmother, I was delighted to see that the glassworks had expanded and was still in operation.
Glass making and blowing is so unique. I enjoyed when I visited my cousin years ago in Chattanooga, a colorful town. They had a great glassblower artist who had a shop there. I had a small bud vase blown with colors I liked. I'll always treasure that vase and remember that trip.
ReplyDeleteIf I recall, New Hope has a great glass artist too and shop.
It is hot stuff,
DeleteGlass art can be so beautiful. That was our “retirement investment” for years. It didn’t pan out as retirement funds, but it was a wonderful collection.
ReplyDeletePretty to look at,
DeleteI've seen this done a few times and always marvel at what they create. There's a place in Columbia that does glass-blowing and their pieces are wonderful.
ReplyDeleteThere is a cluster of glassworks in Milton West Virginia, an expensive place to pass through.
DeleteIt's nice to match memories of what you did with your grandma to modern times.
ReplyDeleteYes, she and I did some amazing travels.
DeleteAn amazing talent. I've always wondered if it hurts their lungs but from what I have just read online - it probably doesn't if they know what they are doing and it always looks like they do. ;)
ReplyDeleteDefinitely do not inhale.
DeleteI could watch a skilled craftsperson do glass blowing for hours! So fascinating!
ReplyDeleteThere are workshops around the area that offer hands-on experiences.
DeleteI watched a documentary on Dale Chihuly's creative process. What an artist!
ReplyDeleteThe elevator lobby in my last office was decorated with his work - no wonder the rents was so high
DeleteIt's wonderful that there are still craftspeople who keep old skills going. My main memories of glassmaking are connected with the island of Murano near Venice.
ReplyDeleteWe didn't make it to Murano, a reason to go back.
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