Studio Visit Q & A

1. First visit a working museum. Tacoma, WA has a "hot shop" (facilities to blow glass) built into the museum. There are auditorium types seats above the artists. It is the best way to see if watching the process is of interest to you.

a. Contact local art associations for glass artisans in your area.

b. Check the phone book.

c. Visit a store selling stained glass supplies and ask about people willing to have visitors at a studio.

d. NEVER just drop in. Make arrangements in advance.

a. If visiting a studio while work is in progress, ask for a place to sit where you can see things, but not be in the way. Building a glass piece involves movement, no matter the type of hot or cold glass construction.

b. When you arrive ask how you may ask questions? Good to take small notebook and jot down questions.

c. Never touch anything, unless specifically asked to do so.

d. Get permission to take photos or videotape. Some artisans guard there work products stringently. Also, a flash can blind someone who is working with hot glass or lead.

e. A studio is dangerous. Wear sensible clothing and no sandals! Sturdy shoes with good soles. There is always broken glass around and chemicals.