About Us
Artist's Statement
"I vividly remember watching flame-workers at craft fairs and glassblowers at Colonial Jamestown when I was a child. I worked in stained glass for years before I watched two friends in their beginning glassblowing class., and I was immediately hooked. That was nearly thirty years ago. A machine designer and builder by trade, I researched, designed, and built all of the equipment in my studio.
Blown glass continues to amaze me; when molten, the natural tendency of glass is to assume graceful forms. Its ability to both absorb and transmit light and show depth allows beautiful effects not seen in other mediums. I like the tactile experience of working with a gather of glass that is over 2000 degrees, using heat, gravity, and tools to control its form. Glass is a difficult medium to master, demanding concentration, calmness, physical ability, and above all, humility. I hope that others find beauty and grace in my work, and enjoy viewing it time and again."
GR Glassblowing is open (hot) for four to five months per year, in the spring (March-early May) and fall (October-early December). During these months, glassblowing workshops are offered, such as "Fresh-Squeezed Ornaments", or "Create Your Own Paperweight". Glass artwork is also offered for sale during these events.
Due to the time it takes to supply his galleries and pursue other interests, John does not offer studio rental nor in-depth glassblowing classes. He does only a limited amount of commission work, and does not do glass repair.