Summer 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 or planter.
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.
Washington Glass School was well represented by WGS Resident Artists Kate Barfield, Patrica de Poel Wilberg, and April Shelford- congratulations!
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
Workhouse Arts Center is located at: 9518 Workhouse Way Lorton, VA 22079
Vulcan Gallery, W-16 1st Floor
On View: November 2, 2024 – January 12, 2025
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.
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!
In the aftermath of the 2000 Artomatic show, renowned glass artist Tim Tate and metal/eco-artist Erwin Timmers felt the need to create a space for the growing glass art community in Washington, DC. Their solution was the founding of what was first called “Meltdown”—the future Washington Glass School. The school’s very first class, held on September 13, 2001, came in the shadow of one of the most tragic days in American history. While the founders initially considered canceling the session, the overwhelming desire of the students to move forward created an indelible bond. The class became a healing space, where sadness and fear were channeled into creativity and connection.
From those early days, the Washington Glass School (WGS) has embraced community and resilience as core values. In 2003, the school relocated from its original home—now the Rubell Museum in DC’s Southwest neighborhood—to the Washington Sculpture Center. Michael Janis, an innovative artist who joined the school that year, became a director by 2005. His leadership, alongside Tate and Timmers, continued to steer the school as it grew in reputation.
In 2006, a turning point came when the school’s building was taken by eminent domain to make way for the Washington Nationals’ baseball stadium. Unfazed, the WGS team moved just outside the District to Mount Rainier, Maryland. It’s been their home ever since, where they continue to teach, collaborate, and create public art.
WGS has evolved into a dynamic hub for artistic exploration, encouraging artists to challenge the conventional limits of glass as an art medium. Their collaborative spirit thrives, with glass artists working alongside creatives from other disciplines, producing public art that speaks to the heart of the community.
On this 9/11 day of remembrance, we reflect on the resilience embodied by the “Survivor Glass”—the only window to remain intact out of over 40,000 at the World Trade Center. Found near Ground Zero, this piece of glass from the 82nd floor of the South Tower stands as a symbol of strength amid unimaginable loss. As artists who work with glass, we understand the qualities of the material and the powerful stories it can hold. Today, we honor the lives lost, the strength of the survivors, and the enduring spirit of our nation. On this day of remembrance, we reflect on the resilience and strength found in the smallest things.
Mount Rainier Arts Commission held its August social at the Glass School, and despite the heat, conversation flowed!
The Mount Rainier Arts Commission (MRAC) has been networking the area creatives with a monthly “artist’s social” for artists (in all media and forms) that live or work in Mt Rainier- this month’s event is a Social at the Glass School – Wed, 28th Aug, from 6-7:30!
And a perfect chance to chat up the new commissioners about the representation of the arts in our area. These events are a lot of fun and connect!
And a great time to view the new Kelly Towles mural on the side of the Glass school!
WGS Co-Founder and Director Tim Tate sent the blog a preview of his spectacular new work – have a read of Tim’s thoughts on the work:
“Just finished what may be one of my most important pieces of my career. This is a piece dealing with LGTBQIA+ issues in the United States. These 36 points (one for each tile) will hopefully be in place when our children become adults. It is shipping out tomorrow to the INTO ACTION 2024 show in Chicago to be held in conjunction with the Democratic National Convention.
As you know, the stakes of our democracy have never been higher as they are in the 2024 election cycle. So this August, we are bringing together artists, activists, and communities from across the nation for INTO ACTION 2024, a large-scale art exhibition and community festival against the backdrop of the convention.”
TIM TATE “Universal LGBTQIA+ Bill of Rights : A Discussion of 36 points”; Cast Glass, Steel; 6ft x 6ft x 2in
We, the members of a global community committed to justice and equality, proclaim this Charter of Rights for LGBTQIA+ Individuals to affirm the inherent dignity and the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals, this charter is dedicated to fostering an environment of respect, safety, and inclusion.
1. Right to Commemorations and Monuments
Description: Public recognition through monuments or memorials that honor LGBTQ+ history and individuals.
Importance: Preserves and highlights the contributions and struggles of the LGBTQ+ community, fostering respect and historical awareness.
2. Equitable Tax Policies and Social Security Benefits
Description: Fair treatment in tax legislation and social security benefits that recognize all family structures.
Importance: Ensures financial equity and security for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families, reflecting diverse living arrangements.
3. Inclusion in Emergency Response Plans
Description: Specific consideration of LGBTQ+ needs in emergency preparedness and response strategies.
Importance: Guarantees that safety measures address the unique vulnerabilities of LGBTQ+ persons, ensuring effective aid during crises.
4. Participation in Public and Political Life
Description: Full rights to engage in political processes and public service without discrimination.
Importance: Encourages active civic engagement and ensures LGBTQ+ voices are represented in decision-making processes.
5. Protections for Intersex Children
Description: Prohibition of invasive medical procedures without the informed consent of intersex children or their guardians.
Importance: Protects bodily autonomy and prevents unnecessary medical interventions that can have lifelong consequences.
6. Right to Marry Freely
Description: The ability for LGBTQ+ individuals to legally marry any consenting adult they choose.
Importance: Affirms equality and supports the legal recognition of diverse relationships.
7. Protection Against Solitary Confinement Based on Gender Identity
Description: Prohibits the use of solitary confinement for LGBTQ+ individuals based solely on their gender identity in detention settings.
Importance: Prevents cruel and inhumane treatment and safeguards mental health.
8. Protection from Bullying in Schools
Description: Implementation of strong anti-bullying policies to protect LGBTQ+ youths in educational institutions.
Importance: Creates a safe learning environment, critical for personal development and mental health.
9. Recognition of Chosen Pronouns
Description: Respect and legal recognition of an individual’s chosen pronouns in all settings.
Importance: Validates and affirms gender identity, which is essential for psychological well-being.
10. Right to Safe Spaces
Description: Assurance of access to safe spaces specifically for LGBTQ+ individuals in various environments.
Importance: Provides environments where individuals can freely express their identity without fear.
11. Right to a Bright Future
Description: Policies and practices that aim to provide optimistic and equitable future opportunities for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Importance: Encourages the development of supportive and inclusive frameworks in education, employment, and beyond.
12. Online and Internet Protection
Description: Enhanced protections against cyberbullying and harassment for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Importance: Ensures safety in digital environments, which is vital given the high rates of online abuse targeting the community.
13. Protections for Queer Parents
Description: Legal safeguards that ensure LGBTQ+ parents have equal rights in adoption, surrogacy, and parenting.
Importance: Recognizes and supports diverse family dynamics, ensuring all parents and children are respected and protected.
14. Employment Protection
Description: Strong workplace non-discrimination policies covering sexual orientation and gender identity.
Importance: Promotes a fair and inclusive labor market that allows individuals to work without fear of prejudice.
15. Equal Healthcare Access
Description: Access to comprehensive, non-discriminatory healthcare services, including specific health needs of the LGBTQ+ community.
Importance: Reduces health disparities and ensures appropriate medical care for all, irrespective of sexual orientation or gender identity.
16. Inclusion in Census Data
Description: Ensuring LGBTQ+ individuals are accurately represented in census data collection.
Importance: Provides critical data for policy-making and resource allocation, helping to meet the community’s specific needs.
17. Queer Community Initiatives
Description: Support for initiatives led by and for the LGBTQ+ community to foster social, economic, and cultural development.
Importance: Empowers community members and enhances their overall well-being and visibility.
18. Right to Serve Openly in the Military
Description: Allows LGBTQ+ individuals to serve openly in the military without discrimination.
Importance: Promotes equality and capitalizes on the talents of all service members, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.
19. Right to Personal Assembly and Associations
Description: Freedom to form and participate in LGBTQ+ groups and events without interference.
Importance: Facilitates community building and support networks, crucial for social empowerment and advocacy.
20. Recognition of Chosen Families
Description: Legal acknowledgment of chosen families, which are non-biological kinship bonds crucial within the LGBTQ+ community.
Importance: Supports the reality of diverse family units and ensures they receive the same legal and social benefits as traditional families.
21. Freedom from Torture and Degrading Treatment
Description: Absolute protection against torture and degrading treatment, especially in contexts of detention and healthcare.
Importance: Ensures humane treatment and upholds the dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly vulnerable in such settings.
22. Educational Curriculum Inclusion
Description: Integration of LGBTQIA+ history and awareness into educational curriculums.
Importance: Educates young people on diversity and inclusion, promoting respect and understanding from an early age.
23. Protection Against Forced Sterilizations
Description: Explicit prohibition of forced sterilizations, often targeted at transgender and intersex individuals.
Importance: Protects bodily autonomy and prevents abuses in medical and institutional settings.
24. Equality and Non-Discrimination Laws
Description: Comprehensive laws that ensure equality and protect against discrimination for all LGBTQ+ individuals.
Importance: Forms the legal basis for equal treatment and protection under the law, essential for all aspects of public and private life.
25. Gender Neutral Bathrooms
Description: Availability of gender-neutral bathrooms in public and private venues to ensure safety and comfort.
Importance: Accommodates all gender identities and enhances privacy and security.
26. Right to Adopt Children
Description: Ensures that LGBTQ+ individuals and couples have the right to adopt children.
Importance: Provides children with loving homes and respects the rights of LGBTQ+ people to form families.
27. Ban on Conversion Therapy
Description: Prohibition of any practices aimed at changing an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity.
Importance: Protects individuals from harmful and discredited practices that attempt to alter their fundamental identities.
28. Freedom of Thought, Conscience, and Religion
Description: Guarantees that individuals can freely practice their religion and express their thoughts and conscience without discrimination.
Importance: Ensures that LGBTQ+ individuals are not excluded from religious or philosophical communities based on their identity.
29. Right to Privacy
Description: Protection of personal data and the right to privacy in all matters, including those related to gender and sexual orientation.
Importance: Safeguards individuals from invasive inquiries, discrimination, and harassment.
30. Freedom of Artistic Expression
Description: Freedom for LGBTQ+ individuals to express themselves artistically without censorship.
Importance: Encourages cultural enrichment and personal expression, important for societal diversity and understanding.
31. Access to Asylum
Description: Right to seek asylum based on persecution due to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Importance: Provides refuge and safety for those facing serious threats in their home countries due to their LGBTQ+ status.
32. Legal Protection Against Bias
Description: Strong legal frameworks that address and penalize discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals.
Importance: Ensures justice and recourse in cases of discrimination, crucial for upholding rights and equality.
33. Equal Housing Laws
Description: Protection against discrimination in housing based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
Importance: Ensures that all individuals have equal opportunity to secure housing without fear of prejudice.
34. Protection from Imposed Moral Codes
Description: Ensuring that no one’s personal moral or religious beliefs justify discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals.
Importance: Upholds the principle that personal beliefs should not infringe on the rights of others, ensuring a tolerant and diverse society.
35. Gender-Affirming Healthcare and Treatment
Description: Access to healthcare that recognizes and supports an individual’s gender identity, including hormonal and surgical treatments.
Importance: Essential for the well-being and health of transgender individuals, ensuring they receive appropriate and supportive medical care.
36. Protection from Violence and Hate Crimes
Description: Strong laws and enforcement against hate crimes and violence targeted at LGBTQ+ individuals.
Importance: Provides a secure environment for LGBTQ+ individuals to live without fear, crucial for their safety and mental health.
This declaration aims to eliminate all forms of discrimination, uphold the rights to privacy, expression, and love, and ensure that each individual may live authentically and without fear. Through this document, we commit to protecting these rights as fundamental to the structure of our society and indispensable for the free and full development of each person’s potential
Earlier in the year, Greenbelt Metro Apartments LLC, in partnership with the City of Greenbelt, commissioned WGS artist Erwin Timmers team to create three-dimensional artwork to be installed at Motiva, a new 354-unit residential development in Greenbelt, MD.
The artwork design was to be a place marker that enlivens the Motiva Greenbelt complex and surrounding area. Erwin Timmers also outlined how sustainable design would be integrated into his design, using recycled glass.
Motiva Concept: Two tall stylized plant shapes will grace the side of the public plaza at the main entrance. The plant “stems” will be the structural elements and have branches coming out the sides which will
hold circular glass flower shapes. The structure will be made of powder coated steel, with a
coloring that shifts from green below to yellow and red above. The plant stems will bow outward
and then come closer together toward the top. They seem to form an entrance or gateway. The
two shapes will be similar, but uniquely different.
The glass inset panels that form the petal circles will be made with neighborhood community participation, in workshops held at the Washington Glass Studio.
Timmers said that the inspiration for his nature inspired design comes from the MOTIVA complex’s natural surroundings and the environment. Flowering plants that are native to the area include Black-Eyed Susans, Asters, and more. Flowers are often a symbol of growth and opportunity, and the artist said “just as wildflowers need diversity to make a healthy eco-system, so do people…”
The finished install date will be Mid-September – more about this great project as we get photos!!