WGS John Henderson’s Glass Art Shines in “The Evidence of Things Now Seen” at Arena Stage

Washington Glass School resident artist John Henderson’s captivating glass artwork is featured in the upcoming exhibition The Evidence of Things Now Seen, presented by Black Artists of DC (BADC) and Tres Raíces Arts. This powerful show, running from Saturday, May 24, 2025, to Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater (1101 6th Street, SW, Washington, DC), celebrates the richness of Black life through themes of belonging, equality, legacy, liberation, love, and joy.

Jon Henderson, kiln fused glass on exhibit at Arena Stage

Curated by Gia Harewood, the exhibition draws inspiration from the profound legacy of American writer and civil rights activist James Baldwin, whose work fearlessly illuminated truths about identity and humanity. John Henderson’s glass art, known for its color and emotive depth, resonates deeply with these themes, offering viewers a unique perspective on the Black experience through the transformative medium of glass.

A special talk about the works will take on June 11, 2025, from 6:30–7:30 PM, about the stories behind the works. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience John Henderson’s artistry and the collective brilliance of BADC and Tres Raíces Arts in this inspiring exhibition.

Event Details: The Evidence of Things Now Seen

Exhibition Dates: May 24–June 17, 2025

Location: Arena Stage, 1101 6th Street, SW, Washington, DC

Talk: June 11, 2025, 6:30–7:30 PM

Celebrate Black creativity and explore “The Evidence of Things Now Seen”.  Click HERE to see online catalog of the show!

#WashingtonGlassSchool #JohnHenderson #BlackArtistsDC #TresRaicesArts #ArenaStage #GlassArt #BADC

“New Connections in Glass” Exhibit at Ice House Gallery

Washington Glass School resident artist Patricia de Poel Wilberg will be featured in the upcoming “New Connections in Glass exhibit at the Ice House Gallery in Berkeley Springs, WV. Curated by Maureen Storey, the show runs from May 30 to July 27, 2025, with an Opening Reception on Saturday, May 31, from 6:30 – 8:30 PM.

The exhibition brings together eight exceptional glass artists exploring diverse techniques and perspectives within the medium. Each artist offers a unique lens into the many ways glass can be transformed, manipulated, and used to tell visual stories.

Patricia de Poel Wilberg’s work continues to captivate with her painterly approach to glass. For this exhibit, Patricia debuts a vibrant new series of figurative panels celebrating noted women artists throughout history. These tributes aren’t just portraits—they’re rich, layered interpretations that reference each subject’s distinctive art and style, translated into glass.

Patricia de Poel Wilberg working on her new glass artwork series

Using vitreous enamels and kiln-formed glass, Patricia meticulously builds her panels through multiple firings, fusing and reforming components to create dynamic narratives. Her newest works honor the legacies of women whose creative voices have shaped the art world—brought to life in color, texture, and light.

Evolution of Patricia’s glass artwork tribute to Yayoi Kusama. (The Japanese artist known for their signature use of polka dots and large-scale installations.)

“I wanted to show how the spirit of these artists can be reinterpreted through the language of glass,” Patricia explains. “Each panel is a conversation between their work and mine.”

Featured artists in the show include:
Elizabeth Braun
Rachel Brooks
Mark Hill
Sharon Moffitt
Patricia de Poel Wilberg
Laurie Madsen Snarr
Maureen Storey
Nancy Weisser

We encourage everyone to make the trip to the scenic Ice House Gallery to see this remarkable collection and to support Patricia and her fellow artists. It’s sure to be a stunning and inspiring celebration of innovation in glass.

New Connections in Glass
May 30 – July 27, 2025
Opening Reception: Saturday, May 31, 6:30 – 8:30 PM
Ice House Gallery
138 Independence Street, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
www.icehousecoop.com

Celebrating Graciela Granek: Farewell Lunch at Washington Glass School!

Join us in celebrating Graciela Granek with these photos from her farewell lunch at Washington Glass School and her time at the school! 🥂 Since 2020, Graciela has been a cherished resident artist, instructor, and friend. She’s now heading back to Tel Aviv to reunite with family and launch her own studio. Wishing her endless creativity and success!

Follow her on IG @graciela.wajser.granek 

Upcoming Washington Glass School Event at the National Building Museum!

National Building Museum, 401 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20001

Step into the world of architecture, design, and history at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C. Located at 401 F Street NW, just four blocks from the National Mall.

national building museum features Washington Glass School classes
WGS leads workshop at the National Building Museum.

Washington Glass School Event! :
A Maker’s Workshop: The Art of Mosaics
Join Graciela Granek from The Washington Glass School for a hands-on mosaic workshop inspired by the Visible Vault exhibition. Two sessions are available on May 17: 10:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m. (NOTE: Both sessions are now SOLD OUT!!)
Don’t miss the chance to explore the stories of the world we design and build. Visit the National Building Museum and be inspired!