To end 2024 on a positive note – We are looking forward to 2025: DC’s new Cedar Hill hospital commissioned Washington Glass Studio to make a ‘DC themed’ glass mural (8 foot x 5 foot high). All our studio artists were invited to make inset panels in their glass style. Just started process fitting out glass panels into the steel framework- here’s a sneak peek! The artwork will be installed early in 2025!! Happy New Year!
Artists involved include: Nancy Kronstadt, Erwin Timmers, Tim Tate, Arden Colley, John Henderson, Patricia de Poel Wilberg, Graciela Granek, April Shelford, Jaelin Jones, Jun Lee, Trish Kent, Chip Montague and Michael Janis.
Gisela and Ben Huberman. Photo by Miriam Rosenthal
It is with profound sadness that we at the Washington Glass School share the news of the passing of Gisela Huberman (Gigi). Gigi was a remarkable force in the arts community—a passionate advocate, a generous supporter, and a cherished friend to so many.
Gigi Huberman outlines James Renwick Alliance goals at the Smithsonian Renwick Gallery 2013
Gigi was a vibrant and accomplished woman whose energy and intellect left an indelible mark on everyone she met. She was a businesswoman, author, and connoisseur of contemporary art and glass. Together with her husband Ben, Gigi became a vital supporter of contemporary craft, building a collection that celebrated innovation and creativity.
Gigi Huberman with artist Joyce Scott at the Military Women’s Memorial 2013
During her years in Washington, DC, Gigi was deeply involved in organizations that enriched the arts community. She was an active member of the James Renwick Alliance (JRA), where her passion for contemporary craft was matched by her dedication to fostering a supportive community of artists, collectors, and enthusiasts. Gigi also championed local organizations such as the Washington Project for the Arts and Artomatic, demonstrating her commitment to nurturing emerging artists and amplifying their voices. In addition to her role as a patron, Gigi a linguist who one chaired the languages department at American University, transitioned into a career as a communications lawyer. She also co-owned multiple radio stations and shared co ownership of telecommunications towers.
Born in Mexico, Gigi’s vibrant personality, her warmth, laughter, and boundless enthusiasm were also expressed in her series of mystery novels with her central character Gloria Berk. Depicted as intelligent, witty, and resourceful – were these traits reflecting a literary or intellectual ideal or were the modeled on Huberman’s own experiences?
Gigi’s connection to the Washington Glass School was heartfelt and deeply appreciated. She saw the potential in glass to tell stories, to push boundaries, and to connect people. Her encouragement and enthusiasm for our work were a gift that we will forever treasure.
Image of Huberman’s Potomac residence features many works by artists of Washington Glass School.
Those who knew Gigi will remember her not only for her support of the arts but also for her fiery spirit. She was a firecracker—bold, dynamic, and unafraid to speak her mind. Her vibrant personality lit up every room she entered, and her laughter and insight will be sorely missed.
Gigi Huberman presenting JRA artists at the Smithsonian Art Museum.
As we grieve the loss of Gigi, we are also filled with gratitude for the legacy she leaves behind. Her love for the arts, her belief in the power of creativity, and her unwavering support for artists will continue to inspire us. We send our deepest condolences to her husband Ben, her family, and all who were lucky enough to call her a friend.
Rest in peace, dear Gigi. You will be missed more than words can express, but your light will shine on in the art you championed and the lives you touched.
Resident Artist Jun Lee preps her bas-relief glass panel.Jun Lee, dimensional cast glass panel, 14″ x 14″, 2024
Join us for the Washington Glass School’s Holiday Open Studios on Saturday, December 14th, from 12-5 PM! Explore a dazzling collection of glass art and other creations by our talented Resident Artists and Instructors, just in time for holiday gift shopping or adding unique pieces to your collection.
Erwin Timmers, cast recycled glass & steel, 15″H x 20″W x 5″D, 2024
Spring is here, and Jennie is back! Time to celebrate with color, creativity, and a little flair! In this fun and hands-on class, you’ll make a stunning 8″x4″ glass garden totem. A perfect way to add a pop of color and personality to your garden, planter, or indoor space.
No glass experience? No problem! We will guide you to a fun creation. And since this is a Garden Party, feel free to dress the part!
Virginia’s Lorton Workhouse Arts Center opened their 10th Annual Glass International, an exhibition highlighting the depth and breadth of contemporary functional and sculptural glass art. This year, in celebration of Workhouse Arts’ 10th year exhibiting glass they opened eligibility to include artists working internationally.
Kate Barfield “Dream of the Wind-Up Bird”Patricia de Poel Wilberg
Washington Glass School was well represented by WGS Resident Artists Kate Barfield, Patrica de Poel Wilberg, and April Shelford- congratulations!
Washington Glass School artists (L-R) April Shelford, Kate Barfield, Patrica de Poel Wilberg, Arden Colley.
Exhibiting Glass International Artists: Karen Abbott, Kate Barfield, Denise Bohart Brown, Beryl Brenner, Lee Campbell, Guillermo Castaneda Jr., Marcy Chevali, Anthony D’Amico, Patricia de Poel Wilberg, Jeanne Marie Ferraro, Olga Gobernik Kon, Ruth Gowell, Jennifer Hand, Mollie Hansen, Jennifer Hecker, Marla Heiner, Sara Hitchcock, Mary Jones, Martin Kremer, Kelly Lacy, Becca Low, Sandi Martina, Kimberly McKinnis, Shawn Messenger, Paul Messink, Jack Schmidt, Michael Scupholm, April Shelford, Madeline Shir, Ori Shir, Aric Snee, Chuchen Song, Tim Spurchise, Heather Sutherland, Tabitha Thierjung, Katherine Thomas, Exer Thurston, Michael Tracy, Snuffy Wright
Winter Open Studios Set for Dec 14th! Mark Your Calendars!
Join us in the DC region’s largest one-day visual arts event! On Saturday, Dec. 14th, from Noon til 5PM, Washington Glass School and its Resident Artists, Teachers and Students will participate in the Winter Open Studios! See what we’ve been up to! Come visit hundreds of working artist studios in the Gateway Arts District, along Route 1 from the DC line/ Mount Rainier up to Hyattsville, MD.
Washington Glass School 3700 Otis Street, MD Rainier, MD
This Election Day 2024 is SO important! Make your voice heard! Washington Glass School’s Resident Artist Patricia Kent’s glass art shines light on democracy!
Trish Kent, VOTE!, 2024, kilnformed glass. 24″W x 60″H. Trish Kent, The Divided States of America, 2023, kilnformed glass, mixed mediaArtist Trish Kent talks about their statement glass artwork at Montpelier Arts Center in 2024.
Did you ever wonder about the mosaic art pieces you may have seen in archeological sites? Mosaics are one of the most beautiful and ancient ways to create art and express ideas. There are several materials that can be used to create mosaics. In this class, you will be able to learn different techniques to create your own mosaic art that will endure the passing of time. You will learn how to prepare a mosaic substrate, learn to cut glass, design and finish 2 plaques of 8 by 8 inches on your own. Most of the work will be done on the first workshop day. The mosaic has to truly dry before applying grout, therefore, we will meet the next day to apply the grout and do final touches.