Pink !

Hillary:

Color is one of the things that can help or hinder your ability to date a piece of Blenko glass. Some colors were made only for a year or two, others have been made almost every year. The Blenko Four website has a whole section devoted to colors, that helps differentiate the shading and the time periods they were made: http://www.blenkocollectors.com/blenkocolors.htm Check the bottom of the page for photos of color groupings. I highly recommend this to new collectors wanting to learn about Blenko glass, especially regarding colors that to an untrained eye can appear to be the same.

From my own collection: On the left is an amethyst ivy vase. I am not positive this is Blenko, but the pontil feels right, and the color is the same as other pieces I can positively identify as Blenko glass. The decanter is a 6310 in Rosé. Rosé was in the catalog in 1963 and 1964 only, so I know this piece was made one of those two years. The dented vase is a Hank Adams design, #894 in Dusty Rose. I know this was made between 1989, when the vase was designed, and 1990, which is the last time the color Dusty Rose was made, and because the design no longer appears in the 1991 catalog. In 1991, Dusty Rose was replaced by the color Orchid.

Happy Hunting!

Diane

Mercedes Benz / NOT

Carl W wrote: Glasslady, . . . . . . . . . You need to understand Blenko Glass is not and never will be the Mercedes of the Glass world. . . . . . . . . . .

Blenko is factory glass that wasn't made to be collected and quite frankly isn't worthy of collection. . . . . . . (the note continued for 5 paragraphs all negative comparisons to Mercedes).


Carl W,
You are correct! Blenko is NOT the Mercedes of the Glass World. I for one am very happy to say this, let me say again Blenko is not the Mercedes of the glass world and doesn't pretend to be anything it is not. Blenko is dependable, quality made, functional glass.

Mercedes Benz www.mbusa.com is known to be good, and people over 60 gravitate to the Benz. I belong to the group of young professionals who look at the Benz with jaded eyes.

Our personal experience with Mercedes - if you follow the blog you know my Dad's dream retirement car was a E -350 diesel which he purchased locally (for 3k more than Germain of Columbus price) Smith Motor Cars #4 Dudley Farm Charleston, WV www.smithcars.com in December 2008. We were involved in a auto crash going 25 miles per hour rear ended the car in front of us - that car American Made received less than $5k damage, the Benz over $18K

and note: the Benz is STILL being repaired by South Charleston Frame and Body Shop (5813 MacCorkle Ave St Albans, WV 304 766 8761) the car was injured 12/24 almost 70 days ago and no date for competiton is noted.

It seems Smith Motor Cars has no collision department, so they recommend Spring Hill Body and Frame - - and well Benz parts are very slowly arriving from who knows where to Spring Hill Body and Frame Shop.

So IF you want Mercedes Glass or car - you need to be prepared for damage , the expense of damage and often LONG waits. Some Americans (my Dad belongs to this group) feel very local to the Benz and want to always buy local regardless of the merits. Like you Carl my Dad's next car will probably also be a Benz from Smith Motor.

With American Glass and Cars - ( the insurance industry website states 2 weeks - 14 days is the average time for a major collision repair) the cost to replace is much less, the cost to repair is less. The stress of OWNING is less.
Also many of us can not afford a Mercedes or (Mercedes of the glass world) and some of us would never buy - - even if we could afford.

Blenko Glass is the glass of the people. Its made in a small factory. It was designed to be useful and to be used daily. Most collectors use their Blenko.

My friend owns several Gihuly items, http://www.chihuly.com/ these are under Plexiglas and never touched by hand.

Gihuly http://www.chihuly.com/ perhaps isn't the Mercedes Benz of the glass world but it is high end and glass art for the middle to upper glass.

Perhaps Blenko Glass should be compared to the FORD or CHEVY both made in the USA and affordable and usually the dealer has collision repair shop and according to Insurance website they are repaired in 2 weeks.

Owning comes with responsibility - but deciding what to purchase - where to purchase is
primary to making quality decisions on each purchase.

Buy your Blenko from a dealer with knowledge (until you have knowledge). With Blenko and most all of life, you get what you pay for.

With Mercedes Benz? ? Well, Carl you need to write again so I can understand your conception of Benz? What glass do you equate with the Benz?

You Can Never Be Over The Top

Its our belief when it comes to collection Blenko and American handcrafted glass their is no ceiling.

HI Hillary,
Ok, I am officially over the top now. I had purchased a mirror to install in the girls bathroom and thought wouldn't this make a neat reflecting pool for shooting some of our Blenko.

Enjoy,
Bruce
This is a group of Husted designed '57 miniatures. An Amethyst 57-D, Teal 57-B, and Gold 57-E. I have found several of these over the years and enjoy spring flowers in each.

Are You Smarter Than a Sixth Grader

Can we help WV Janis identify her bowl?






Hillary: This bowl is 5" tall and 8" wide. The color is a pinkish brown with controlled bubbles and a pontil mark on the bottom. I'm hoping that one of your readers can identify it. WV Janis

Blenko # 533 Pinched -side Vase

Readers always ask " what to collect", Blog friend Bruce often shares photos of his glass collection. A perfect answer to the what should I buy, look for, and collect. Always beautiful Bruce's Blenko.

Hi Doc,
A nice trio of Blenko #533 Pinched-side vases in Jonquil, Turquoise and Tangerine.
Enjoy
Bruce

Blenko 6513

HI Hillary
The first photo shows a pair of Myers designed heavy crystal cased vases in Turquoise and Peacock. These are Blenko 6513's produced by Blenko from 1965-68. I stumbled upon both of these in the past six months as mislists on ebay and paid only $20 for each. The second photo is a closeup to show the casing in more detail. The second pair is a couple of Blenko's more recent designs that were purchased at a signing event for both of my girls. Each was signed by Richard with their names as well. I believe these are both Hank Adams designed. The left is a 5206 in Azure with Celery lip and a 4106 in Celery with Cobalt lip.
Enjoy
Bruce Specht

Where To Donate Your Quality VIntage Glass?

Hillary
I live in Mount Hope, this year I'm cleaning my home with the expectation of moving to a independent living situation in twelve to twenty months. My Mother's glass collecting became an obsession in the 50s one I continued until the late 80s. My garage and outbuilding both hold boxes I haven't viewed in a decade. Will you make suggestions for where I can donate the glass, or a person who might be willing to come in a conduct a tag sale for me?
Patty Bell
phone:XXX XXXX

Mrs. Bell
Remember I am a dentist, with no formal training in glass arts or estate sales.
In your situation, I would phone the West Virginia Museum of Glass http://www.wvmag.blglance.com/ and ask if they might
be interested in your glass. You failed to mention what glass you collect, but Morgantown WV
is the home of the Seneca Glass Museum,

In Huntington - the Huntington Museum of Art http://www.homa.org/ may have an interest or some suggestions. One other source is the Cultural Center http://www.wvculture.org/ in Charleston, and the So Charleston Museum http://www.charlestonmuseum.org/.

RE: Tag Sales - Trophy Hair in Charleston, WV (Tammy) loves glass and conducts professional tag and estate sales weekly. Address is 418 Virginia Street Charleston, WV phone 304 346 3907

Another possibility is the Mountaineer Auction House in Clendenin, WV. (Roger) Phone 304 548 4056.

Email theblenkoproject@aol.com and I'll give you phone numbers and contact names.

Our readers may have other suggestions, please offer suggestions to Mrs. Bell about how to / where to donate her glass.

Remains Of The Day

Growing up around glass factories in WV, I collected little chunks of glass and played with them for hours. To me they were treasures, pirate's booty. I sorted them by color, size, and my perceived value. Some little chunks were dropped into my goldfish tank.
The pieces photographed below are larger than most in my collection and purchased within the last year for the nostalgia factor! From left to right, here we see a chunk of red/orange cull; next is a piece of cement with glass spilled onto it; next is a blown glass ball with spikes on it; last is a piece of cement with green glass adhered to it. The pieces range from 3-5 inches tall.
WV Janis

If you have a Blenko or WV Glass story to share, please send to theblenkoproject@aol.com . Stories and photos are always welcome.

American Idol

Hillary:

As long as we’re on the subject of water bottles, I thought I’d send you something from my other hobby. I make greeting cards; stamped, embossed, you name it, if it involves paper, I will find a way to make a card out of it. Last week I took a class at one of my favorite scrap/stamp shop. Iris folding looks so cool, and so complicated, but it is actually very easy. The results are pretty amazing, if you consider what the back of the card looks like. I bought a book that has over 400 different templates and patterns for placing the folded paper strips. Unfortunately, there was one shape they didn’t have. I decided I’d create a water bottle template. The fun part is that I can make this in any color, or combination of colors that suit my fancy. The attached was my first try.

Enjoy!

Diane

Massive to Mini

Moment of Luxury

Luxury and beauty surround us all daily, we do not always see these qualities, and we certainly do not take advantage of them.
Moments of Luxury - PBS Series. One that I continue to enjoy.
The phrase Moment of Luxury keeps returning - can spending an hour with your grand kids watching West Virginia Glass being made qualify as a "Moment of Luxury"?
I proclaim it can.
Ask your readers to stop in Weston West Virginia at Appalachian Glass. www.appglass.com There Chip Turner will demonstrate how to blow and fire glass, he may even let them participate.
Blenko Glass has an excellent observation site - however, it isn't open for on Saturday and Sunday.
Enjoy reading your column.
Claude G. Smith

Websites Devoted To Glass Education

Doc Glass - Saw
this listing for your The Blenko Project. Thought you'd like to see.
Ted E
The website are intended to provide an educational venue with many pictures of Blenko & or American Glass with the specific objective of education. They may contain examples of a type of vase / decanter / items of glass of a specific designer. In most cases, the experience is intended to be visual and educational as significant written information is accompanying the visuals.
www.blenkoproject.org

Stunning - Rare - Iconic

Doc Glasslady,

I've been searching for the Husted Floor Vase for 5 long years. It will complete my collection of 58 Husted.

That is assuming I have the winning bid, and the seller answers all my questions.

Maggie

I'm attaching photo and the listing for you to share with the lazy blog readers who may not know about the Husted Architectural Decanters.

Stunning - Rare - Iconic

Here for auction I have one magnificent American 1958 vintage Blenko Glass architectural floor decanter.

This showpiece being created by Wayne Husted, in turquoise and with the original company foil hand sticker. This wonderful decanter stands 31" tall - its huge!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Maggie

Thank you. I own this piece in Ebony, it is huge, magnificent piece of glass. hjh

Heart Of Glass Blog

http://media.herald-dispatch.com/blog/blenko Needs your photos and stories of WV and American Glass.
Please send to theblenkoproject@aol.com .

Belated VALENTINE CARD

We've talked a lot about the BLENKO GLASS water bottle.

Blenko does the water bottle image in a very popular glass medallion.

Blenko Collectors have found stamps with the image.

Blenko Collectors love the water bottle.

This one product has over the years has made Blenko a small fortune.

Its functional, its affordable, its easily carried, wraps well....its the perfect gift!

Diane a Blenko Glass Collector, a multi talented Blenko Glass Collector made this card using scraps of paper!

I don't know if she made the paper - but these Blenko Collectors are crafty - she may have also made the beautiful paper. I am certain the design is her original paper design.

This is the PERFECT Valentine's Day card , it like the original Blenko Water bottle is PERFECT for any occasion.

Thank you !

Size Really Does Matter

Mini's Anyone?
A small gathering of Husted's Miniatures. Teal sheared top CM-4, Tangerine 60-E, Jonquil 60-B pitcher, Chartreuse pinched-top CM-2, Amethyst 60-B pitcher, Tangerine 60-F pitcher, Lime sheared top CM-4.
Enjoy
Bruce Specht

Foot Prints In The Sand

Photo: The Bronze Look

Princeton, W.Va.

Richard Needham - "For the first half of your life, people tell you what you should do; for the second half, they tell you what you should have done."

When you spot a special piece of glass one that touches your heart, or causes a rise in your temperature - in an antique shop, on Ebay, at the Blenko Visitors Center, or in the on line shop of your favorite vendor.
Purchase that glass. Eliminate the remorse that comes with passing by, then returning to find the item was purchased by another.

Blenko and American Glass are under priced and under valued at this time. The prices in my humble opinion will increase greatly with time.
In the 25 years I've been living more than 2 dozen plants have closed. Fostoria closed when I was in grade school, I still recall the shock and awe of the Wheeling community. Morgantown Glass' closure left a large void in the American Glass stemware market. My family collected both Fostoria and Morgantown Glass. The value of this glass increases yearly and my family uses the glass daily.
Use your BLENKO, enjoy it, and buy only what you love. Not with the expectation of making a mint.
Nothing makes me happier than being surrounded with object of art, its my belief colorful glass made by hand in West Virginia is certain to improve the mood of your daily life.

Face Vase

Doc Glasslady,

Awhile back someone wrote to ask for pictures of the Blenko face vases.

I am bidding on this one.

Glasslady you failed to post face vase photos, or Blenko failed to give you photos of

face vases. Anyway no one answered this young collectors question.

Publish this if you dare.

Max T.

Max, You are correct. I failed, to be honest, the 'collectors' do most all the work for this blog.

The photos you see belong to the 'collectors', the 'collectors' answer most all the questions, I keep promising I'll 'improve' after my training is completed, but the quality of this blog will always be dependent upon the 'collectors'.

Re: Face Vases, these were most often made by Hank Adams, in my Columbus Apartment are 6 Face Vases , they moved with me from WV. ( I left the Hank Adams "Devil Face Vase" designed as a special edition to assist the Blenko Museum in WV). These vases are in my living room and are often the start of conversations about Blenko Glass - - - and perhaps inspire new collectors, I've never placed flowers or anything else in my Face Vases - my parents often use the Face Vases as containers for beautiful floral arrangements.

I promise in March to take photos of the 'face vases' I own, and my request to 'collectors' for photos of their 'face vases' has been made.

Please remember we (meaning me) get on average 20-25 emails a day theblenkoproject@aol.com (very similar to your letter) with questions or a request, we attempt to direct the persons to the answers, or to provide the assistance. We do this as a volunteer with little support from Blenko Glass, not because they don't care but because they are understaffed and struggling to made the quality handcrafted glass we all expect and desire.

Remember to BUY MADE IN THE USA.

Think You've Had Enough Snow?

This photo was sent by blog friend Mike Euler from the State of Virginia.
The photo expresses my heart felt thoughts of this winter. Bring on Spring!
Take advantage of the Winter , go shopping - BLENKO GLASS continues with the Winter Clearance - PRE Spring Sale!
Now is the time to purchase with the thought of
future gift gifting.
My Mom uses a hall closet for gift wrap and gifts she finds during the year - most often on sale - for birthdays, weddings, and other holidays.
Shop SMART! Shop Blenko !
Remember: Buy Made In USA.

Massive to Mini: 101 pieces of Blenko Glass - A VALENTINE'S DAY GET A WAY

VALENTINE's DAY GET A WAY -

Massive to Mini: 101 pieces of Blenko Glass

An exhibit of form, light and color

Weston, WV – Form, light and color rock the gallery at the Museum of American Glass in Weston, West Virginia with an incredible exhibition of 101 pieces of Milton West Virginia’s Blenko glass. This show, which continues until May 31, 2010, features objects well over three feet tall to some a mere 3 inches tall and is a romp of organic form, lovely light and bold color. On display is a wide variety including tableware, experimental prototypes and wildly unexpected face vases. The objects were made during the period 1930 to 2000 and all are labeled with about half including the name of a world acclaimed designer.

This family-owned company was founded by English-born William J. Blenko who made three failed attempts at glassmaking in this country before locating in Milton in 1921 to manufacture sheet glass for stained glass windows. When the Depression decimated this market, the company hired two expert glassblowers and began making tableware in 1930. The products were primarily functional and of classic design until 1947 when the company hired a full-time designer to distinguish the Blenko look. The resulting products were so successful that the company continued to have designers on staff until 1974. During this time, Blenko became the leader in modern American glass and even received a Good Designer Award from the Museum of Modern Art in 1950.

Even today, sheet glass for use in stained glass windows, where bold colors are needed, remains an important product. And these same bold colors are a signature characteristic of Blenko consumer products. Equally distinctive are the organic shapes that come from the natural gravity flow of hot liquid glass combined with the hand-formed methods used to shape an object.

The exhibition was curated by Dean Six, museum executive director, with glass from the museum’s collection augmented with loans from Dumpster Divers Antiques of Pennsboro, WV and from the private collections of Rock S. Wilson and Dean Six. Mr. Wilson also donated the glass from which the popular life-sized Blenko Man was made. It is part of the museum’s permanent collection.

In addition to the beautiful glass, there are graphic displays including a selection of enlarged catalog pages spanning decades and allowing visitors to see pieces not physically on display.

The Museum of American Glass in West Virginia is open daily Memorial Day through Labor Day noon to 4:00pm. The balance of the year the museum is open daily noon to 4:00pm and closed on Wednesday and Sunday. Admission is free. It is easily accessible off I-79 exit 99 onto US 33 West for two miles to Main Avenue. A left turn onto Main and the museum is on the left at 230 Main Avenue. Begun in 1992, the museum relocated to its present location in 2007 and occupies 12,000 square feet with over 7,000 pieces of glass on permanent display. The museum is home to the National Marble Museum and The American Flint Glass Workers Union Archives. The museum holds an annual marble festival and numerous special exhibits throughout the year. More information can be found at http://wvmag.bglances.com/. Questions about programs or the museum can be directed to 304-269-5006.

Estate Sale - Close Out PMESTATE SALE www.pmestatesales.com

Purple Moon Estate Sale - The bad weather diminished sales - this is the after sale, check out the website. Status of Blenko Glass at this sale ???? http://www.thepurplemoon.com/ http://www.pmestatesales.com/ Purple Moon is where I go first for vintage BLENKO GLASS and the Contemporary Furniture we love.

Purple Moon Estate Sale
CLOSEOUT!!
Estate Sale - South Charleston
805 Montrose Drive

Sat. February 13 - 50% OFF
10am - 4pm
Sun. February 14 - 75% OFF
11am - 4pm

www.bluespiral.com

Blue Spiral Gallery 38 Biltmore Avenue Asheville NC. is one of my favorite galleries. Perhaps because they share my appreciation of JOHN NICKERSON 's work or perhaps because they have spectacular American Glass.
Blue Spiral's exhibition NEW X 3 is in full swing - you'll want to arrange a weekend trip to Asheville, NC.
Check out their website http://www.bluespiral.com/ phone 828 251 0202 should you have question about inventory or hours.
Support glass artist. Buy local when you can and always BUY MADE IN THE USA!

Blenko March 8th PBS Presentation

Katie Garrison of Blenko Glass today announced:
Upcoming PBS Presentation
On March 8th, Walter Blenko will be appearing on the Iowa PBS station to promote Blenko Glass during their airing of "The Spirit of American Stained Glass". The program will be the first PBS presentation to feature Walter Blenko and will focus heavily on the influence that Blenko Glass has had on the design and artistry of American Stained Glass. During the promotion a special pledge package of Blenko Glass products will be available.

$$ OFF COUPON GOOD FOR VALENTINE's DAY

This coupon is valid only at the Blenko Visitor Center. Coupon must be presented in person at the time of your purchase. Coupon not valid on Limited Edition items. Limit one coupon per person per purchase.

Blenko Glass Milton, WV

Looking for a Valentine's Day Gift? Blenko can provide you with a one of a kind, no two are exactly alike . . . . . hand crafted West Virginia Glass.

Buy Made In The USA!

Buy Blenko Glass.

Husted Designs # 5611 & 5617

Husted designed Teal #5611 knob handle pitcher with a similarly designed #5817 knob handle Martini Pitcher in Tangerine.

These beauties below to Bruce Specht Family of Texas.

4 Days Until V-Day CALL BLENKO GLASS -

Valentine's Day - BLENKO GLASS has you covered ! Drop by or give them a call!

Saint Valentine's Day, Valentine's. Call it what you like - romantic fools - will be celebrating in many countries, cultural differences aren't so significant on this day of the heart!
Love and affection celebrated between lovers
If you haven't been shopping - its not too late, the least expensive is sending a greeting card ( note postage continue to increase - you might want to hand deliver the card) . . .greeting cards are recommended for co workers, level 2 friends, the lady who cleans for you, the 'girl' who takes special care of your dry cleaning, the handyman at your apartment complex, the secretary who allows for your 2 hour lunch etc.

The next level is 'gifts' and this one is touchy and I feel totally inadequate to give suggestion, other than check out the Blenko Glass http://www.blenkoglass.com/ website or phone 304 743 9081. It may be too late to guarantee deliver before Feb 14th but I'll bet Katie or one of the Blenko Ladies will include a card or make a call to say the 'wonderful gift' is on the way! It was delayed - not due to your tardiness but because it was handcrafted in West Virginia especially for your loved one!

WEB MASTER STEVE FOUND THE INFO BELOW ON WIKI - He thought it might be helpful info for Valentine Day preparation.
Sending greeting cards and gifts, dating
Saint Valentine's Day[1] (commonly shortened to Valentine's Day[1][2][3]) is an annual holiday held on February 14 celebrating love and affection between intimate companions.[1][3] The holiday is named after one or more early Christian martyrs named Valentine and was established by Pope Gelasius I in 496 AD. It is traditionally a day on which lovers express their love for each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery, and sending greeting cards (known as "valentines"). The holiday first became associated with romantic love in the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer in the High Middle Ages, when the tradition of courtly love flourished.
Modern Valentine's Day symbols include the heart-shaped outline, doves, and the figure of the winged Cupid. Since the 19th century, handwritten valentines have largely given way to mass-produced greeting cards.[4]

38 Days Until Spring!

photos from Blog friend Elizabeth - its a Husted piece she's watching on Ebay.

A snow storm has been predicted for this week, if you are suffering from the winter blues and need a break, consider a visit to Blenko Glass. http://www.blenkoglass.com/ for driving directions and a $$ off coupon.

Pre Springs Sales at Blenko Glass.

Check out the clearance tables in the rear of the store - items marked up to 75% off the wholesale price.

Every day is a good day to shop BLENKO!

Chinese New Year

( Not exactly a Tiger - a Blenko Cat).

Celebrate The Chinese New Year! The year of the Tiger. Its a 10 day celebration, Chinese New Year is Feb. 14. (info obtained from web)

Blenko Glass has a $ off coupon on the website - cut and take with you to the

Blenko Gift Shop in Milton, WVa.

Prices have never been lower.

Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, is the most important of the traditional Chinese holidays. The festival traditionally begins the 1st day of the first month (Chinese calendar) and ends on the 15th. Chinese New Year's Eve is know as chu xi It literally means "Year - pass Eve.

It is a tradition that every family thoroughly cleans the house to sweep away any ill fortune in hopes to make way for good incoming luck. Windows and doors are decorated in red color paper cups and couplets with popular themes of "happiness', " wealth," and "longevity". On the Eve of Chinese New Year, supper is a feast with families.

Why not celebrate while cleaning all your Blenko, then plan to host a party, using your colorful Blenko to bring in a New Year of happiness, wealth, and longevity?

**Thank you to reader Lewisphddvm for photo of Blenko Cat - one he is currently watching on E Bay.

Blenko Countdown

Blenko Glass www.blenkoglass.com
39 days til March 20 th SPRING!
39 days of clearance and mark downs - check out the BLENKO GLASS Visitor Center Gift Shop for wonderful Blenko Glass. Clearance shelves in the back of the store.
54 Days until EASTER - Blenko Glass Craftsmen are busy making Easter eggs and Easter Baskets.
Note: They also have a large selection of RUBY GLass for Valentine's Day
and GREEN GLASS for St Patty's Day!
At Blenko they gotcha covered for all occasions!
The Blenko Countdown begins today. . .

Enthusiasm

Henry David Thoreau " None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm."

Tressa R wrote to say " are you all on drugs, you are so enthuasitic and postive and silly when you speak about glass and glass makers, you make the process sound erotic, I don't get the high when I buy or see glass. I want to what am I doing wrong? Also can you put me in touch with other collectors in the DC area

Tressa,

I'm posting your note, I don't have a master list of collectors, may I suggest you contact the West Virginia Museum of Glass and attend their monthly meetings to learn more about Glass. Being with others who share a passion for collecting is important. Enthuasiam will return to your life. Another suggestion is to attend the Festival of Glass in Milton, or come on June 20th spend the night in the parking lot with Blenko Collectors and purchase a 2010 WV Birthday Vase.

Good Luck!

These photos are from Bruce. Ruby 3748S, Myers 6524S in Olive Green. Bruce reports "the olive green was on of my early 'finds' in a local antique store. The purchase price was $20.

Bruce uses old Blenko Catalogues and the Pina Books for reference.

NOTE: Bruce's ability to find and purchase beautiful vintage Blenko at very low prices, is an art, one most of us will never develop. Do not be discourage if you pay 300-400% more than Bruce.

Pre Designer Blenko

This photo is from our friend Bruce S of Texas.

2/8/10

A half dozen of you wrote to ask Bruce about this photo, his response:

This picture is of some earlier Blenko pieces, a 919C cruet in Chartreuse beside a great find I stumbled across on Ebay last month, a #56 vase from the '30's in Cobalt. I had actually seen this piece listed in late December and thought I had seen it in my Eason Eige reference book. The auction was ending in less than five minutes when I ran across the piece originally and I could not find it in the reference. After the auction ended, I stumbled across the page from the old catalog that showed it. I had not saved it to my watch page so I couldn't contact the listing party so I just hoped it might come up again. It did, so I quickly added it my predesigner collection. The cobalt #56 piece is 8" tall.

Enjoy

Bruce

Send Us Your Photos

of Blenko and American Glass. Mail to theblenkoproject@aol.com
Photos will be uploaded 14 days after receipt. Thank you hjh.
Heart of Glass Blog is searching for good photos of BLENKO and West Virginia Glass
and personal stories of collecting or glass making.
Please share your stories with our readers. hjh

The Artist's Way -

Hilary. I have been reading about the Blenko designers, Husted, Myers, Anderson, Shepperd, etc. Why would these people go to Milton, WV to work? All were accomplished in their area of study?

Jinny S.

Ms. S. The designers you mention came to Blenko Glass very early in their careers. Blenko was for most the 'first job' after design school. A quote from Carl Jung may explain better than anything I could say. . . perhaps if one of the designers reads he'll comment.

Carl Jung:

'Art is a kind of innate drive that seizes a human being and makes him its instrument. To perform this difficult office it is sometimes necessary for him to sacrifice happiness and everything that make life worth living for the ordinary human being.'

Note: Collectors photo of Vintage Blenko punch bowl, ladle and cups.

What to do on a SNOW DAY?

Call Blenko Glass 304 743 9081 for observation deck times - Mon- Friday
Saturdays on special occassions only.

Andrew Kuntz:


'I find working with glass meditative, almost therapeutic. I can the the world behind, and focus...The simplicity of form, the dram of rich, intense color, the joy of challenge, and the challenge of endurance...The piece, when it is over, is not what is made, but how it is made.'





Take your children to BLENKO GLASS, the observation room is open every weekday and an occasional weekend. Phone for information. 304 743 9081.





Having a SNOW DAY? Take the children to Blenko. Make it an educational day, a day of family experiencing handcrafted WV Glass. Increase your pride in our State, allow your children to learn about the art of glassmaking!

PM SALES - Purple Moon Estate Sale

I'm posting this without Mr. Chuck's approval, I don't think he'll mind that I'm inviting all of you to this estate sale.
See the 5929L this lovely piece of Blenko Glass is a part of the estate.
If you're a collector and you don't have a 5929L I'm certain you share my strong desire to own several. In my collection are three smaller 5929s. This 5929L is on my 'must have' but can't afford list.
You won't want to miss this estate sale.

Purple Moon http://www.purplemoon.com/ located in Charleston, WV
www.pmestatesales.com for the estate sale listing.

is conducting an estate sale Feb 6 & 7 - check out the listing on their website. A large selection of furniture and collectibles. This Blenko Glass vase caught my eye !

Bronze Look Cameo Art Glass Event Feb 6

Cameo Art Glass artisans Kelsey Murphy and Robert Bomkamp will make an appearance at The Bronze Look in Princeton, WV on Saturday February 6th. The Bronze Look has a nice selection of both one of a kind and limited edition Cameo Art Glass by Kelsey and Robert. As well as one of the largest selections of WV art glass in the state.

West Virginia cameo art glass extrodinare Kelsey Murphy and Robert Bomkamp joined forces with now extinct Pilgrim Glass in 1987. When they began their Cameo Glass journey the breakage rate was 95%, now a million shards of glass later the breakage rate is 4%. Even more amazing than the decrease in breakage rate Kelsey Murphy has successfully carved 12 layers of glass. According to Murphy "cameo glass with 12 layers has never been done before in the history of glass making". "The English glass people back in the early 1900's were able to do five color pieces but most of them blew up. There are only a few examples left in private collections and museums."

In the earliest years of cameo art glass only the wealthiest of families could afford even the smallest of pieces. It was so valuable that during World War II, when London was being bombed, entire collections were carefully packed up and secretly shipped to Canada for safe keeping. The Bronze Look, LLC has brought pieces of this amazing art glass to Princeton, WV with a selction of both "Made in Heaven" one of a kind pieces and Fenton Cameo Art Glass that has been designed by Kelsey Murphy and Robert Bomkamp. Not all cameo art glass is only for the wealthy. The Bronze Look has pieces that any collector can add to their collection.

But what is Cameo Glass? The best way to describe it is that it is hand-blown, hand carved, multiple colored glass in which the carved portions of each colored layer reveal the colors beneath. Kelsey says, "I thrive on challenge". She has actually counted 24,270 things that can go wrong with a piece of glass from the time the sand is dumped into the hopper until the finished art work comes from the lehr (cooling oven). "The glass is both magical an defiant," Murphy says, "Glass is alive, a kind of anachronistic poem. It's strong enough to hold up buildings, but fragile, one of the densest of materials, but you can see through it. You can manipulate glass, but it will turn on you in a second."

Michael Aram

Hillary
Is it true, please say its true. Is Micheal Aram doing a 2010 Blenko Glass special design?
Carolee M


Carolee,


NO! The Blenko Glass designer is the most excellent Arlon Bayliss http://www.arlonbayliss.com/ .
I'm certain you know Micheal Aram an artist, designer and sculptor http://www.michealaram.com/ Micheal is an internationally renowned designer who has lived and worked in India since 1989. Lyrical and often witty, his work encompasses a wide range of media ( I'm attracted to his metal and glass designs). Aram's work is a celebration of age old handworking traditions.

We know Arams' work with Waterford Crystal. His designs bring to the table organic and architectural designs. One of my holiday gifts was a set of Waterford metal napkin holders designed by Aram. We'll write to Aram's and ask for photos.
While NOT made in the USA. The handcrafted metal items are exceptional.

101 Pieces of Blenko -

Form, light and color rock the gallery at the Museum of American Glass in Weston, West Virginia with an incredible exhibition of 101 pieces of Milton West Virginia’s Blenko glass. This show, which continues until May 31, 2010, features objects well over three feet tall to some a mere 3 inches tall and is a romp of organic form, lovely light and bold color.
request. Museum of
American Glass located in Weston, WVa.

The Valentine's Day Countdown

Margaret Mead said, " Having someone wonder where you are when you don't come home at night is a very old human need."

A Swedish Proverb sent to me my a Blog reader " Shared joy is double joy; shared sorrow is half a sorrow.

Valentine's Day is the time to honor friendships, this year step out of your comfort zone and send V-Day cards to your friends, give Ruby Glass or other Blenko Glass http://www.blenkoglass.com/ to your friends. People you value.
The purchase doesn't have to be large, or perhaps gift from your collection.

One of my favorite quotes is from Annie : How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.

Make this month of Feb, a month of reaching out, tell others about your passions, perhaps introduce them to American Glass?
Margie Hale (blog friend) sent me a suggestion for V-Day - she suggest visiting with your elderly neighbors for 10 or 15 minutes, or sending a card to an elderly relative.

Valentine's Day has been taken over by vendors, it isn't just a day for lovers, its a month to focus on heart issues, to make new friends, to reach out to neighbors, to take some time to be grateful for the many blessings in our lives.

NOTE: Hearts are from Osburn Glass located in Milton, WV

www.miltonfloral.com

The Milton Floral is a family owned and operated florist in Milton, W.Va.
Phone 304 743 9079
800 242 8475

Milton Floral has BLENKO GLASS available and will upon request put your floral arrangement in a Blenko Glass made in the USA container.
Note: Adding the vase will increase the price, but the vase will last a life time.

Winslow Anderson # 947

Blenko Glass - Learn about Blenko Glass http://www.blenkoproject.org/ . Glass making, glassblowing, glass craftsmen. Check out Blenko Glass located in Milton, WVa.

Anderson design : 947's in the larger version 947L in Amethyst with a smaller 947S in Emerald Green.

Blenko Ram Head Paperweight

Dr Glasslady,

I'm attaching a photo of the best buy on EBAY for Blenko collectors.

A rare Ram Head paperweight, the current price is $49 but the site says there are 36 'watchers'.

I own this one and paid over $200 in 2002.

Steve P.

More Information on Osburn Hearts

For those with a sweet tooth, we have created these lovely heart-shaped candy dishes, which may also be used for votive or pillar candles. Shown in blue, pink, and multi-color. $40.00

Standing at approximately nine inches tall, it is the perfect choice for the longer stemmed flowers. Shown in irridized deep red, with additional color choices of blue, pink, muti-color, and caramel available. $45.00

(Osburn Modern Glass is located on AMOS Street in Milton about 1/2 mile up the road from Blenko Glass.)

Phone: 304-743-9280 or toll free at 1-888-743-9280

Fax: 304-743-9281

Website: http://osburnglass.com/

Orders are accepted by phone, fax, or email - get one for your valentine today!

Blenko Glass

A reader from Clarksburg sent photos of 2 ornaments from Blenko. She states: " Hillary when you wrote about the college logo items you neglected to mention the balls - ornaments. These are less than $35 and make excellent gifts for students or recent graduates. Thank you.
Dede M.


Dede
Thank you. These items are in the photos I have, and I have not visited the new Blenko Website. Thank you for finding and sending the photo.
hjh