List of Glass Blowing Classes in Montana 2023 [Updated]
Montana is known for its mountainous landscapes and national parks like Glacier and Yellowstone. The state’s natural beauty is a source of inspiration for visitors and residents alike.
Artists of all mediums live and work in the state of Montana. Glass art is popular amongst tourists due to several studios and galleries located near vacation spots. Glass blowing is also a viable career path thanks to the University of Montana Western’s unique glass degree.
The following are private studios and public institutions offering glass classes this year. These opportunities range from quick experiences to semester-long courses.
- Basic Lampwork Starter Kit for beginners. 2 hours of instructional video on DVD, plus full email...
- (Requires disposable propane or Mapp Gas canister. or bulk tank propane with hose.)
- Please use saftey lenses and adequate ventilation when lampworking.
1) Lisa Tate Glass
- Type: general glass art, glass blowing
- Classes: small group, private, multiple week sessions, 2 hour classes
- Price: $100-$650
- Website: https://lisatateglass.com/
- Telephone: (208) 484-6607
- Location: 21718 Kesa Ln. Florence, MT 59833
Lisa Tate studied glass at the top institutions in the United States, such as the Pratt Fine Art Center in Seattle and the Corning Studio in New York.
Tate specializes in layering colors and cutting through those layers to show her unique designs. Her methods of glass blowing can be explored in introductory classes at her studio.
These classes are ideal for beginner and intermediate glass blowers. Students can choose from 2 hour sessions or 4 week intensives. Topics covered include safety, basic techniques, and color application.
Tate offers private instruction options for both class types.
2) Goose Bay Handblown Glass
- Type: general glass art, glass blowing
- Classes: small group, blow-your-own, demonstrations
- Price: Contact for pricing information
- Website: https://www.goosebayhandblownglass.com/
- Telephone: (406) 266-4496
- Location: 101 S. Front St. Townsend, MT 59644
Goose Bay Handblown Glass opened in 2002 and is located near some of Montana’s top vacation destinations.
The studio and gallery are open to visitors and lessons are available by appointment.
If you are interested in viewing the glass blowing process up close, Goose Bay Handblown Glass offers demonstrations during working hours. Ask the artists questions about their craft and take home a keepsake from the gallery.
3) The University of Montana Western
- Type: general glass art, glass blowing
- Classes: small group, semester courses
- Price: Contact for tuition information
- Website: https://www.umwestern.edu/department/fine-arts/
- Telephone: (406) 683-4405
- Location: 710 S. Atlantic St. Dillon, MT 59725
The University of Montana Western offers high-quality degrees with lower tuition costs than other four-year institutions in Montana. The University has a range of degree options, with one of the most unique being their Bachelor of Arts degree in glass.
Glass students are exposed to all sorts of glass techniques during their time at the University. These include glass blowing, flameworking, cold fabrication, kiln forming, and scientific glass making processes.
Students complete a well-rounded set of coursework that includes art history, core degree classes, and electives.
While a degree in glass is not required for success in the field, if you are a serious student who wants to dedicate several years to learning the craft, the University of Montana Western may be the ideal fit for you.