Glass Forge Gallery & Studio LLC

In the heart of Grants Pass is a unique destination where fire and sand are transformed into elegant forms—the Glass Forge Gallery and Studio. This is not just an exhibition space but a fully operational workshop that carefully preserves and advances the traditions of Venetian glassblowing in the USA.

Here, visitors can witness the magical process of transforming a molten mass into works of art. The studio's masters use classic Italian techniques over two thousand years old to create everything from miniature jewelry to massive decorative vases and light fixtures. Each piece presented in the gallery is unique and carries a bit of the warmth from its creator's hands.

The studio's atmosphere is filled with creative exploration and the heat of the furnaces, making it a must-visit for anyone who appreciates rare crafts. Thanks to its open-door format, Glass Forge has become one of the region's most vibrant cultural attractions, offering guests not only aesthetic pleasure but also the chance to purchase artisan gifts at affordable prices.

To inquire about visit details or to pre-book a workshop, you can contact the studio directly. The Glass Forge gallery is renowned for its hospitality and high level of service, as evidenced by numerous positive visitor reviews.

The main reason to visit Glass Forge is for the mesmerizing live demonstrations. You can watch as skilled glassblowers handle the glowing material, turning it into exquisite shapes right before your eyes. The gallery is designed so that guests can move freely and view the exhibits from different angles without losing sight of the masters at work.

For those who want more than just to watch, the studio offers a unique interactive experience. By pre-booking, you can take a short course and, under the guidance of a professional mentor, create your own glass piece: a decorative ball, a paperweight, or an elegant ornament. This is a rare chance to feel part of an ancient art and take home a handmade souvenir.

Don't forget to pay attention to the details of the building itself. Outside, visitors are greeted by an impressive artistic mural, which has become a popular photo spot. If your visit coincides with the first Friday of the month, you can join the First Friday art walk, when the studio becomes part of a large city-wide celebration of the arts, filled with a special festive atmosphere.

Located in the heart of the city, the studio is at 501 SW G Street, at the intersection of G and 3rd Streets. If you are traveling through the USA by car, the studio is easy to find: take Exit 58 from the interstate, follow 6th Street, and turn right onto G Street. Parking is usually available directly in front of the building.

For those preferring public transport, local buses run through the downtown area, with stops within walking distance of the gallery. You can also use taxi services or popular ride-sharing apps from anywhere in the city.

Thanks to its central location, a visit to Glass Forge can easily be combined with a stroll through the historic downtown, visits to museums, or local restaurants, making the logistics of your trip highly convenient.

The history of this remarkable studio began on May 30, 1998. On that Memorial Day, master glassblowers Lee Wassink and Nathan Sheafor first fired up their furnaces, establishing a new creative space in Oregon.

From day one, the founders aimed to revive and popularize the Venetian style of glassworking. In their studio, they employ traditional Italian techniques dating back over two thousand years, making every piece created here a bridge between modern times and ancient art.

Upon its opening, Glass Forge became a cultural sensation for the region, as specialized studios of this caliber were a rarity. Over time, it evolved into an important artistic hub, drawing the attention of collectors and tourists from across the country with its commitment to excellence and the preservation of traditions.

Today, the studio continues to evolve, constantly expanding its range and experimenting with new forms. The masters not only create classic vases and jewelry but also plan to introduce innovative design solutions in the field of lighting, staying true to the spirit of craftsmanship established over a quarter-century ago.

For a quick tour of the gallery and to watch the masters at work by the furnace, 30 to 60 minutes is usually sufficient. This is enough time to enjoy the play of light on the glass and witness the birth of a new masterpiece.

If you plan to participate in a hands-on workshop and create your own souvenir, allow at least 1.5–2 hours for your visit. For a more relaxed and productive experience, it is recommended to visit on weekday mornings, when there are fewer tourists and the masters can spend more time with guests.

The Glass Forge studio is open to visitors according to the following schedule: Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The studio is closed on Sundays. Please note that the glassblowing process usually wraps up a bit earlier than the gallery closes—the masters typically finish their work around 3:00 PM.

As the schedule may change depending on holidays or special events, it is highly recommended to check the official website or make a quick call before your visit to ensure you catch the masters at work.

After immersing yourself in the world of fragile art, you will likely want to continue exploring the local atmosphere. The area surrounding the gallery is rich with interesting spots where you can share your impressions over a delicious dinner or learn more about the region's history.