The closure of DC GlassWorks and Sculpture Studios isn't a farewell to my glassmaking, but is most certainly the end of a chapter. Ten years ago I took my first glassblowing class at this public access studio, 20 minutes from home.
My time at the studio taught me the value of practice. It awakened an appreciation for color and texture and helped me to see beauty in the play between light and glass.
I've had the privilege of introducing others to the medium at studio open houses, at markets and as an instructor. Teaching helped me to understand the cause and effect of each move, the joy and frustration of being a beginner, and reinforced over and over again the value of practice.
The "team sport" that is glassmaking taught me the value of crafting among, and with, a community of makers.
The joy of learning took me to Pilchuck Glass School and the studios of Corning Museum of Glass, with the opportunity to learn from masters of their craft.
Sharing my work has taken me to Chicago, ARTOMATIC, Montpelier Cultural Arts Center, Etsy headquarters and countless craft shows.
I am thankful for what I've learned and who I've met so far, and looking forward to what the next chapter of crafting brings.