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Glass Academy Blog

Materials of Expression: Part Two

Materials of Expression: Part Two

by Chris Nordin
Going back to the process of creating a solo exhibition, I have to force myself to create a new body of work, or to even perfect a body of work. I feel like this was something I needed to do in this stage of my career. I’ve been creating custom sculpture for clients for 30 plus years now so having a show that’s just about me and what my mind feels is the best form of expression is the next step.
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Passion Projects ~ What's Yours?

Passion Projects ~ What's Yours?

by Michelle Plucinsky
 It’s the passion protects that are essential to the work we do.  Allowing ourselves this opportunity to have side jobs, volunteer work, etc., that yields results in everything we do and I know I am a much more talented artist because of it.
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2020 Vision - This Year and Beyond!

2020 Vision - This Year and Beyond!

by Michelle Plucinsky
Our work with non-profits and the local community continues to be one of our strongest assets and since not everyone across the Mid-west can come to us, we’ve decided we could go to them!  This summer - one lucky organization will win the ultimate prize:  The Glass Academy team coming to them for some on-site glassblowing action!!!
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Wholesale Accounts - An Early Lesson

Wholesale Accounts - An Early Lesson

by Michelle Plucinsky

To my family, peers, and society, this contract would solidify the idea, that yes, we could make a living being glass artists and this contract would be that proof that we are on the path to being a professional business!

But then there was a problem with our ornaments.  Over half of the shipment was rejected and we were devastated.  What just happened?!

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I Thought I Knew!

I Thought I Knew!

by Michelle Plucinsky

The super bad, ugly and weird ones?  I take joy in crushing them in the dumpster.  Sad but true, I break them all with a hammer, and relieve stress in the process.  Super fun!

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May I Take Your Order?

May I Take Your Order?

by Chris Nordin
“Why do you enjoy making custom orders for people and is there a difference between the customer watching you make it before their eyes or just or...
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Organic farm inspires Detroit Artist to new levels!

Organic farm inspires Detroit Artist to new levels!

by Michelle Plucinsky
Green Things Farm.  An organic farm in Ann Arbor.  5.5 miles from my home, so close that I could ride my bike~ and I often did.  (Until the summer heat reminded me to lighten up a bit!)  I work 2 days a week, 4 hours each day and I’ve learned a TON.  Most of which is the importance of buying food from your local farmer. 
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The Michigan Renaissance Festival features the Glass Academy as the Royal Glassmakers

The Michigan Renaissance Festival features the Glass Academy as the Royal Glassmakers

by Chris Nordin
If you have never been out to The Michigan Renaissance Festival come to visit the Royal Glass Makers near the Mother Oak stage!  I suggest this year is the year you need to come out.   You’ll get to see me blowing glass on stage in a mid evil costume, having a blast and you can be a part of the excitement!  ~Chris Nordin
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It's an every day occurrence on steroids!!

It's an every day occurrence on steroids!!

by Michelle Plucinsky
Customer appreciation weekend takes place in mid July, this year, July 13 & 14 from 12-4pm.  After the holiday on the 4thand a time when people want to come out and talk, have some hot dogs, grilled by us, and chat it up with the owners, glassblowers, and sales staff of the studio.
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Let's Talk About Mugs!

Let's Talk About Mugs!

by Chris Nordin
I really try to make one-of-a-kind mugs for the gallery so that people can see all the possibilities that are available. Color is the biggest component. After that the shape of the mug and volume are determined. The handle is really important because a nice proper sized handle makes a comfortable mug. The foot or the bottom of the mug is a decision as well and having 6 or 7 different styles in the gallery makes it easy to decide.
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The sometimes lonely path of the independant small business owner

What Keeps Me Awake at Night

by Michelle Plucinsky

For me, one of the things I notice that there is always a daily growth opportunity should I choose to take it.  As the owner you don’t what the day brings, but whatever it does, it’s yours to deal with.  Perhaps the toilet will break, the class will need to be cancelled due to bad weather, or the color we need for a specific job is sold out.  This wasn’t on today’s agenda, now what?  Game on! An opportunity for new growth!!

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The origin of our glass succulents

The origin of our glass succulents

by Chris Nordin
             Glass as a portal of expression for me is an amazing process.       Recreating something that has already been designed by nature is a...
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