Glass Alliance-New Mexico |
Glass is a fascinating medium of artistic expression that has inspired creativity in those who shape it—and wonder in those who see it—for centuries. Glass Alliance-New Mexico brings together all those with an interest in glass art, from beginners to experts. We welcome everyone who has an interest in learning about glass art, whether you are a collector, artist, gallery, or "just curious." We invite you to browse this website, and we encourage you to become a member. Membership in Glass Alliance-New Mexico is the portal through which you will enter the fascinating, ever-changing world of glass art. You will have an opportunity to learn about the medium, take classes, meet artists, and stay up-to-date on the latest happenings in the glass art world. |
Glass Alliance-New Mexico concluded its third extended exhibit at the Albuquerque International Airport (Sunport) on December 30 as the participating artists retrieved their work, walls were patched, cases vacuumed, and we disappeared without a trace leaving only memories and our plan to return (by invitation) in December-January. This year's show was the result of a lot of time, effort, and logistical planning by the four members of the Sunport Committee: Darlene Moore, Sarah Nelson, Lois Manno, and Erin Lutz. Lead installers (and de-installers) were GANM board members Harry Pollitt and Dorian Bouhuys.
The artists whose 43 works were on display this year had an opportunity for creativity to be seen and appreciated by the many thousands of people traversing the airport throughout the holiday period, undeterred by the major airport remodel that is in progress. About 500 brochures providing more information and pointing to this website were distributed.
Participating artists were Lavae Aldrich, Constance G Beck, Karen Bexfield, Dorian Bouhuys, Emily Brock, Theresa Cashman, Denise Elvrum, Rita Fabrizio, Doug Gillis, Amy Griffin, Adam Guernsey, Linda Guernsey, Erika Harding, Willi Haye, Elodie Holmes, Gurudaya Khalsa, Carol Lutz, Lucy Lyon, Lois Manno, Delfie Martinez, Nina Mastrangelo, Yahne McLemore, Debra Meyer, Darlene Moore, Patrick Morrissey, Sarah A. Nelson, Alan Ness, Shel Neymark, Jayne Nordstrom, Donna Nova, Linda Novy-Doll, Harry Pollitt, Ellen Premack, Miguel Sanchez, Rupama Schwartz, Rosa Silbert, Michael Smith, Andrea Tembreull, Alison Thomas, Cia Thorne, Linda Mae Tratechaud, and Linda Weiss. We applaud the remarkable range of ideas and excellence of execution that was the hallmark of this year's Sunport exhibit—out biggest and best yet.
As always, we are very appreciative of the ongoing support of Sunport officials Jonathan Small and Doug Lutz.
If you weren't able to get there in person, you can see the contents of the GANM exhibit here.
Creative juices (and glass) are already flowing for our return. Now is the time to start thinking about how you could be part of Sunport 2024/25 next December and January.
DeVargas Exhibit Draws Rave Reviews |
All four cases at the north entrance to DeVargas Center are now filled with glass art created by Glass Alliance members, and the responses from passers-by and mall management alike have been enthusiastic and positive. Everyone is encouraged to stop by and see this wonderful display of creativity in person. Tell your friends to do the same. It is an opportunity to see a wide array of glass art created using different methods including fusing, casting, blowing, and flameworking. The 4x8 foot cases are at the entrance adjacent to Office Depot, directly across from the back entrance to CVS. Or, for those who are food-focused, the display is opposite the pizza place. New work will be periodically rotated into the exhibit, so go by often to see what's new. DeVargas management is VERY pleased to have this great display of artistic talent at the entry to the mall, and we are very pleased to have another public venue in which to display the work of our artist members. We expect to periodically update the contents of each case, so be sure and check back often for new work. Our thanks to curator Ellen Premack, tireless installers Dorian Bouhuys and Harry Pollitt, and glass wrestlers/aides Harry Miller and Steve Harris for bringing the DeVargas exhibit to life. And our thanks to the 22 artists who contributed their work to this exhibit. Those participating include Elodie Holmes, Lavae Aldrich, Leslie Walker-Hirsch, Linda Mae Tratechaud, Nina Mastrangelo, Rosa Silbert, Connie Sanchez, Theresa Cashman, Al Ness, Cynthia Hartling, Doug Gillis, Gurudaya Khalsa, Luetta Donalds, Rita Fabrizio, Susanne Pinkham, Amy Griffin, Donna Nova, Dorian Bouhuys, Ellen Miriam Premack, Lois Manno, Mary Shaffer, and Yahne McLemore. |
Fall Into Glass
New Mexico is "the heart of glass art." There is a lot of glass to see, in galleries and museums—and there is a lot more to DO.
Yes, YOU can be a momentary glass artist. Really. Right now. Today. No art background, experience, or special talent required. Kids can do it, adults can do it, young people, less-young people, and especially people who say, "But I have no artistic ability." Glass is an intriguing, beguiling, and very understanding medium. It won't always do what you want, but it will always do something interesting.
What if you do have artistic talent? Step right in to the wonderful world of making studio glass art, where the only boundaries are the edges of your creative imagination. Learn the many fascinating techniques and combinations of techniques for shaping glass. It's a world where we are all beginners every time we make something, because each glass making experience is unique—even for the experts. Glass will surprise you, amaze you, amuse you, and entice you.
You can enjoy a one-hour glassblowing experience under the guidance of an experienced glass artist, take a one- or two-day class on making stained glass or glass mosaics, learn to make beads, take part in hybrid online/in-person courses about all aspects of glass making, or immerse yourself in workshops, seminars, webinars and other means of learning about glass. You'll have a memorable and fun experience, and you will take home something YOU made.
GlassU—Class is in Session
Glass class—whether you're a beginner or a pro, there are many opportunities to discover the fun of making glass art. These classes are also a great chance to give out-of-town visitors a unique and memorable experience. Make something for yourself, or make a gift for someone else. Make something big, or small.
The following are classes, workshops, and other opportunities offered by Glass Alliance-New Mexico members. And GANM will occasionally offer specific glass classes at various locations. Glass—don't just view it, do it!
Donna Nova Design (Santa Fe)
Learn the glass shaping technique of flameworking and how to make beads of extraordinary beauty, taught by Donna Nova. There are few opportunities to learn flameworking from a renowned expert. This is that opportunity.
TLC Stained Glass (Santa Fe)
Learn to make stained glass at classes taught by Theresa Cashman at her studio in Santa Fe.
More class and signup info here.
The Groove (Albuquerque)
Instructors at The Groove offer classes in a wide variety of media, including glass.
More class and signup info here.
Glass Blowing
The following hot shops offer introductory glass blowing experiences, under the guidance of a knowledgeable artist. No prior knowledge or experience is required. Advance appointments are recommended, though sometimes these shops can accommodate "walk-ups." Visit their websites for more information and to check availability.
Liquid Light Glass—Liquid Light Glass, located in the Baca Street art district, is the studio and gallery of glass master Elodie Holmes. Classes are taught by one of several accomplished glass artists who regularly work at this studio.
Prairie Dog Glass—Located at the rear of Jackalope, on Cerrillos, Prairie Dog Glass offers a menu of items you can make during your glass experience, ranging from a fluted bowl to a classic New Mexico chile pepper.
Tesuque Glassworks—Tesuque Glassworks, located about 10 minutes north of the Santa Fe Plaza, was founded almost 50 years ago by artist Charlie Miner. An experienced artist-teacher will guide you in blowing a glass art piece of your choice.
Firefly Glass—One-on-one, accessible glassblowing experience with artist Amy Griffin, who is also an experienced art therapist. First timers warmly welcomed.
https://fireflyglass.carrd.co/
Other Learning Resources
Want to learn more? Here, we have listed additional resources for learning more about glass art.