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Heart of Glass - Blenko Glass

Blenko Glass is a West Virginia treasure that spans generations. Nothing symbolizes the state of West Virginia better or more beautifully than Blenko Glass. We will discuss current and former craftsmen and designers and how important it is that Blenko and West Virginia glass be appreciated and valued by the younger generation.

Sunday, July 01, 2012

Studio Glass Dynasty Showcased in Weston


Studio Glass Dynasty Showcased


Weston, WV –To mark the 50th Anniversary of the studio/contemporary glass movement in the United States, The Museum of American Glass in West Virginia (MAG) is hosting an exhibition, “The Lotton Legacy, Three Generations of American Glass.” The Lotton Art Glass Studio is considered one of the top studios in the world and the Lotton’s glass has been called the Tiffany of tomorrow. The exhibit runs July 1 to August 18, 2012.

MAG is proud to be one of 165 museums and other organizations across the country planning exhibits and lectures. These events celebrate the 50 year milestone recognizing the many important artists who have become involved in the movement in the years since 1962 when Harvey Littleton and Dominick Labino first experimented with making glass outside of the factory setting in Toledo, Ohio workshops.

The Lottons are a remarkable family headed by patriarch Charles Lotton a self-taught glass artist who began his career in the early 1970’s. He has been joined in his Crete, Illinois studio by his son Daniel and grandson Timothy as well as by non-family glass artist Scott Bayless. Another son, David, and his sons Jeremiah and Joshua, share a studio in Lowell, Indiana. Charles’ youngest son, John, and nephew, Jerry Heer, have retired from glassmaking. How remarkable it is that these eight men of one family have created such beautiful objects and each with their own unique style.

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 12,000 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://magwv.com/. Questions about programs or the museum can be  directed to 304-269-5006.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

NOW THIS IS ART GLASS.