We were so privileged to host a visit from one of today’s outstanding glass artists: Richard Jolley, along with his wife, Tommie Rush. Richard agreed to come to Chicago from his home in Knoxville, Tennessee, and demonstrate his glassblowing techniques for us.  We were also fortunate to be able to provide a fitting location to showcase his demonstration, at Ignite Studio.

To show our appreciation to Richard, we wanted to have as large an audience as possible. Our members responded with a great showing, and brought many of their families and friends, so that we had over 100 people at the event.
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Before the demonstration began, our President, Alan Lasser, announced a special gift of appreciation to our member and website designer, Linda Oeffling.  The gift was presented by Susan Grosch.

Cheryl Lapin, who organized this event, introduced Richard Jolley.

We always enjoy watching artists at work, and Richard provided a great experience. From his chalk drawings on the floor to each stage of production, he showed how the process brings a piece to life from a lump of hot glass.  Of course it is also fascinating to see how the crew of assistants perform the intricate choreography of gathering, shaping, reheating, and releasing the piece as it is transformed.

Photos by Bob Weissman