Washington Glass School: A Legacy of Art, Resilience, and Community

Washington Glass School ca 2004, located in the Washington Sculpture Center in SE DC.

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.

Meltdown Studio class schedule 2001
Early light fixture class (ca 2002) shows off their finished works.

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.

Future WGS Director Michael Janis (center) in his first class at Washington Glass School, 2003.
Michael Janis works with students from DC’s Stuart Hobson Middle School (ca 2004).

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 Directors (L-R Michael Janis, Tim Tate, Erwin Timmers)

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.

kelly towles, washington glass school
In 2024, DC artist Kelly Towles painted a mural “I ❤ Glass” on the facade of the glass school.

Feeling Soch? The Mount Rainier Arts Commission August Social at Washington Glass School Aug 28th!

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!

MRAC L-R Deanna Noel, Becca Solow, Tessla Thompson at the July event held at Pennyroyal Station.

And a great time to view the new Kelly Towles mural on the side of the Glass school!

Kelly Towles’ mural “I ❤ Glass” on the Washington Glass School, August 2024

Connections and Conversations at Montpelier Arts Center

L-R: The Divided States of America; Trish Kent, Le Singe; Patricia de Poel Wilberg, Rejoice O Windup Bird; Kate Barfield, Twisting, John Henderson

Get ready to experience an artistic revolution and discover the future of sculpture. The Montpelier Arts Center of the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County, proudly presents its 43rd annual invitational sculpture exhibition. Curated by Howard Cohen, this show, titled “Connections and Conversations” features the visionary talents of artists of the Washington Glass School, with a spotlight on the transformative medium of glass, where boundaries are pushed and traditions redefined.

Echoes; Michael Janis

Join us to see how these remarkable artists illuminate the diverse worlds we live in, using glass to spark conversations and create profound connections. This isn’t just an exhibit—it’s a vibrant conversation about our diverse world. Don’t miss this chance to see how glass can tell stories, bridge gaps, and ignite inspiration through community engagement and artistic innovation. 

Don’t miss this chance for an unforgettable journey through art, innovation, and community and discover the endless possibilities of glass as a medium.

Connections and Conversations: Works by Artists from the Washington Glass School

Exhibition Dates: June 7 – July 28, 2024

Public Reception: June 7, 2024, 7 – 9 PM

Lunch and Lecture: June 14, 2024, 12 Noon (Reservations Required – Call 301-377-7800)

Montpelier Arts Center

9652 Muirkirk Road   Laurel, MD 20708

www.pgparks.com

Washington Post on the DC Glass Scene Seen at Artomatic

Washington Post article on 2024 Artomatic exhibit

Great review of Artomatic culture event in the Washington Post. Art critic Mark Jenkins enjoys the all-sorts arts experience and singles out the glass art for comment, including using WGS artist Michael Janis’ artwork titled “Waiting for the Moments that Never Come” as the illustrative work for the show. Writes Mark:

“…Among the various business and governmental sponsors of this year’s Artomatic is a small but internationally renowned arts group, the Washington Glass School. The Mount Rainier, Md., studio has taken a large chunk of the building’s fifth floor to showcase the elegant creations of co-founders Tim Tate and Erwin Timmers and several other glass virtuosos. Tate, who credits Artomatic with playing a significant role in his career, is showing a sculpture that riffs on Leonardo da Vinci’s “Vitruvian Man.” The provocatively androgynous update positions eight glass figures — male, female and combined — in a circle surrounded by mirrors and lights that simulate a sense of endless replication…”

In the galleries: Artomatic: Unpretentious, approachable, convivial – Review by Mark Jenkins, Washington Post, April 5, 2024

https://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/art/2024/04/05/art-gallery-shows-dc-area/

By contrast – have a read about how the Washington Post art critic Blake Gopnik thought of the 2004 Artomatic exhibit:

…”The result is the second-worst display of art I’ve ever seen. The only one to beat it out, by the thinnest of split hairs, was the 2002 Artomatic, which was worse only by virtue of being even bigger and in an even more atrocious space, down by the waterfront in a vacant modern office building. I won’t dwell on the art. And I certainly won’t name names…There may just be a few decent things hidden in the mix — with so many thousands of objects on display, the law of averages says there must be. But three hours’ worth of looking didn’t spot too many. Some of the glasswork looked all right. (Glass is such a gorgeous medium it’s hard to screw it up, and you need some basic training even to begin to work in it.)

Artomatic 2004: Hanging Is Too Good for It by Blake Gopnik

November 10, 2004

https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/lifestyle/2004/11/11/artomatic-2004-hanging-is-too-good-for-it/353b4ecd-8d74-475b-9386-63d5acd048db/

Artomatic runs thru April 28th. 2100 M Street, NW, Washington, DC.

Washington’s Innovative Glass Scene Seen at Artomatic 2024

trish kent, patricia de poel wilberg, nancy kronstadt, april shelford, graciela granek, kate barfield
Washington Glass School Co Founder Erwin Timmers outlines the Studio Glass Movement timeline to audience at Artomatic 2024.

In the 1960s, The American Studio Glass movement transformed glass from craft into fine art.

Artomatic helped create the movement, as after the 2000 Artomatic, the Smithsonian Museum acquired artist Tim Tate’s glass sculpture that was on display. Artist Erwin Timmers’ artwork was also on exhibit at that Artomatic, and after that show, the two began to collaborate, later teaming up to start the Washington Glass School & Studio with the funds from the sale of Tate’s glass artwork to the Renwick.

Washington Glass School Co-Founder Tim Tate’s work at Artomatic 2024.

In 2008, Artomatic organized an exhibit at the Washington Glass School, showcasing the unique approaches to glass sculpture in three “glass” cities: Washington, DC; Toledo, Ohio; and Sunderland, England, fostering international partnerships and collaborative ventures.

Glass works by VA-based artist Griffon Dillon on exhibit at Artomatic 2024.

As the 21st century unfolded, artists across various media have shown growing interest in glass as a creative medium, despite its technical challenges. The Washington Glass Scene has emerged as a hub of innovation, elevating glass to a significant position in contemporary art. The Washington Glass School encourages artists to push boundaries and redefine the possibilities of glass as a fine art medium.

There is a great example of works by DC glass creatives on display at Artomatic 2024, open now thru April 28th. Although the glass works are on many of the 8 floors of art, the 5th floor is the central spot to get ones glass fix. Some photos of Washington Glass School’s reception are featured in this post.

Glass artwork by artist Michael Janis seen at Artomatic 2024 on M Street.

The James Renwick Alliance will hold a craft tour of works on display at Artomatic 2024, March 24th, at 1-3PM More info here on the free tour: James Renwick Alliance Craft Tour – 5th Floor Washington Glass School Installation – Artomatic.

patricia de poel wilberg, kate barfield, april shelford
Curator Howard Cohen reviewing glass art on exhibit at Artomatic 2024.

Baltimore based art curator Howard Cohen came this past weekend to Artomatic to handpick glass artists from the DC area for a contemporary glass showcase exhibit at Montpelier Art Center this June. Howard was able to talk with many of the artists and get insight to their narratives and process. Looking forward to the upcoming show!

artomatic 2024

Artomatic, 2100 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20037

Artomatic Event: The Washington Glass Scene, March 16th, 5-7PM

Step into a world where glass transcends its ordinary form and becomes a canvas of boundless creativity. The Washington Glass Scene on display in Artomatic’s Level 5 invites you to celebrate the kaleidoscopic fusion of artistry and craftsmanship on April 16th, 2024 from 5-7PM. Prepare to be captivated as the magic of glass takes center stage in a creative showcase unlike any other. Join us as we celebrate the transformative power of this versatile medium, where every piece tells a unique story and invites you to explore the depths of imagination. Meet the artists that are making the Washington Glass Scene a distinctive voice and push the boundaries, redefining the possibilities of glass. Event is Free and open to the Public!

Artomatic 25th Anniversary Event: Celebrate DC’s Glass Scene!

2100 M Street, Washington, DC 20037

Gateway Open Studios Venue Map

December 9, 2023 from Noon til 5PM – Holiday Open Studios! See some of the best art and design by the area’s most talented makers! A special exhibit of sculpture made by Military Veterans in Washington Glass School’s “Hot Shop Heroes” workshop held in collaboration with the Museum of Glass will be fetured at the WGS Contemporary Gallery, 3700 Otis Street, Mt Rainier, MD 20712. Artist Talk at 1PM.

Tip: Start your tour in the numerical order listed!

Octopus Encounter!

tara reagan fused glass art
One last look at the work inside the kiln – before firing.

Is it true that all octopuses are born in Octo-ber? Well, here is the ultimate proof! Artist Tana just completed her spectacular 36′ round octopus/sea life themed glass panel at the Washington Glass School! The finished glass panel will octo-py our hearts!!

Tara Reagan with her fully fused octopus.

NCAGG Glass Exhibit at Strathmore Mansion

The National Capital Art Glass Guild (NCAGG) was founded in 1978 as a community of artisans interested in art glass. Every year Guild members conduct classes in many glass techniques and present programs to interested schools, organizations, and community groups. 

WGS Artists at NCAGG Exhibit L-R Patricia de Poel Wiberg, Kate Barfield, April Shelford, Graciela Granek, Michael Janis, John Henderson.

The juried NCAGG member show at the Strathmore Mansion features outstanding works by area glassmakers in multiple styles – and many works by WGS artists!

patricia de poel wilberg glass art
Patricia de Poel Wilberg
April Shelford
Kate Barfield

The show runs through October 28, 2023

April Shelford in awe of Erwin Timmers’ cast sculptures.

The Mansion at Strathmore

10701 Rockville Pike

North Bethesda, Md 20852

SEPTEMBER 5, 2023 – OCTOBER 28, 2023

WGS @ DMG = OMG!

Art Glass Afternoon is back! Florida’s Duncan McClellan Gallery (DMG) continues their exhibit of works by artists from the Washington Glass School (WGS). Co-Directors Tim Tate and Michael Janis will be in sunny FLA to participate in talks and demos!

Join Duncan McClellan Gallery Sunday, February 26th, for this ART GLASS filled day- Free and Open to the public!

WGS artist Michael Janis works on a public art project in the Washington Glass Studio.

Michael Janis will give a presentation on how his background as an architect and designer influences both his personal art and the Washington Glass Studio’s site-specific art installations.

Sunday, February 26th, 10am-Noon

Visiting artist Tim Tate will be creating in the Hot Glass Studio.

Don’t miss the rare opportunity to watch this legendary artist at work.

Sunday, February 26, 10am-3pm

Our popular visiting artists’ lecture series returns with talks from Danish Artists of Backhaus-Brown and Egeværk Studios, and Michael Janis and Tim Tate of the Washington Glass School.

Full Schedule

10am-Noon: Glass blowing Demonstration by visiting DC artist Tim Tate in the Hot Glass Studio with Jeremiah Jacobs and the St. Pete Hot Glass team.

Noon- 1pm: The Danish Artists from Glasskibe talk about their collaborative studios and the inspiring body of work they create together

1:-1:30pm: Michael Janis will give a presentation on how his background as an architect and designer influences both his personal art and the Washington Glass Studio’s site-specific art installations.

During this lecture, Janis will talk about how community involvement creates successful public art works. He will also give insight into the inspiration and technique behind his evocative glass powder imagery.

1:30-2:30pm: Tim Tate’s talk at 1:30pm will focus on “Glass in the 21st Century”.

Artists will be available after the talks to visit with you personally!

Glasskibe: The maritime history of Hundested (Denmark) and the imagery of Viking ships passing have inspired two of the harbour’s contemporary craft companies; cabinetmakers Egeværk and glass artist Backhaus & Brown. These two award-winning workshops have combined their masterful crafts in an innovative collaboration; namely a series of unique sculptures named ”Glasskibe” – Viking ships in glass and wood.

Michael Janis developed a focus on glass after working for twenty years as an architect in the United States and Australia. His work has been shown at major galleries and art fairs and is included in the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, Massachusetts Fuller Craft Museum, Florida’s Imagine Museum, Fort Wayne Museum of Art and Museum of Glass, Tacoma, WA. In 2012, awarded a Fulbright Scholarship, Michael taught at the UK’s University of Sunderland and the UK National Glass Centre. Michael was awarded the Washington, DC Mayor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts in 2016. His collaborative work with Tim Tate was featured at the 2022 Venice Biennale at Glasstress.

Tim Tate has been working with glass as a sculptural medium for the past 25 years. Co-Founder of the Washington Glass School, Tim’s work is in the permanent collections of several museums, including the Smithsonian’s American Art Museum, Renwick Gallery and the Mint Museum. His work has been shown at the Milwaukee Art Museum, the Fuller Museum, the Asheville Art Museum and the Museum of Arts and Design in New York. He was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship and was Artist-In-Residence at the Institute for International Glass Research (IIRG) in the UK. Tim was named “Distinguished Artist in Glass” by the James Renwick Alliance in 2018. He participated in the Venice Biennale Glasstress show with Ai Wei Wei in 2019, the Boca Raton Museum Glasstress in 2021 and again in Murano in 2022. Last year, Tim’s work was featured at the Hermitage, in St. Petersburg, Russia.

Washington Glass Show Exhibition in the gallery: Shown-works by Tim Tate, Michael Janis, Christina Helowicz, Erwin Timmers and Teri Swinhart. (Also shown-Richard Jolley.)

Duncan McClellan Gallery address is:
2342 Emerson Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33712

855-436-4527

DMGlass.com
Gallery Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10am-5pm
Sunday: Noon-4pm