List of Glass Blowing Classes in New Mexico 2023 [Updated]
New Mexico is known for its arid climate and colorful arts scene. Cities and small towns across New Mexico are home to museums, studios, and independent artists who are inspired by the landscape and spirit of the state.
The history of art in New Mexico begins with the Native people groups who have lived there for centuries. Navajo, Pueblo, and other groups perfected the arts of silversmithing, turquoise jewelry making, painting, weaving, and more.
Today, the beautiful works of art created by the indigenous peoples of New Mexico continue to inspire in museums and special collections. Descendants of early Native artists pass down traditional techniques to the next generation.
Glass blowing and related hot glass processes are popular art forms in New Mexico today. Artists glean inspiration from the landscape, the history, and the culture of the state.
Students who are new to glass blowing can learn the process at one of several studios located in the cities of Santa Fe and Albuquerque.
Below are the best places to learn glass blowing for the first time or expand your skills.
- 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) Prairie Dog Glass
- Type: general glass art, glass blowing
- Classes: small group, mornings, afternoons, evenings, weekdays, weekends, demonstrations
- Price: $225
- Website: https://www.prairiedogglass.com/glass-experience
- Telephone: (505) 216-1699
- Location: 2820 Cerrillos Rd. Santa Fe, NM 87507
Prairie Dog Glass is one of Santa Fe’s best glass blowing studios for beginners. Visitors can participate in blow-your-own glass blowing experiences that are the perfect introduction to hot glass.
Students choose their project and colors and assist the instructor in forming the shape.
Project options include chili peppers, bowls, vases, ornaments, hearts, cups, pumpkins, and flowers.
Free daily demonstrations are also offered as an alternative to glass blowing classes. If you want to watch the glass blowing process before deciding to try it for yourself, this is the best choice for you.
2) Aurora Borealis Glassworks
- Type: general glass art, glass blowing, flameworking
- Classes: small group, weekdays, weekends, torch rentals
- Price: $50-$250
- Website: https://www.auroraborealisglassworks.net/home
- Telephone: (505) 256-1675
- Location: 5314 Kings Row NE Albuquerque, NM 87109
Aurora Borealis Glassworks is a flameworking and glass blowing studio located in Albuquerque. The studio offers classes and rentals for all skill levels.
Classes are project-based and emphasize the techniques required to complete the particular project. Options include paperweights, beads, ornaments, pumpkins, bowls, and flowers.
Project choices depend on a student’s individual experience level. Beginners start with basic shapes like paperweights and beads and progress to complex forms.
Classes range in length from 3 to 5 hours, so students are sure to learn and practice a range of techniques during class time.
Studio rentals are available for experienced flameworkers. Contact Aurora Borealis Glassworks directly for more information.
3) Liquid Light Glass
- Type: general glass art, glass blowing
- Classes: small group, weekend
- Price: $225 per hour
- Website: https://www.liquidlightglass.com/
- Telephone: (505) 820-2222
- Location: 926 Baca St. Ste 3 Santa Fe, NM 87505
Liquid Light Glass is owned and operated by celebrated artist Elodie Holmes. Holmes is the head artist of the studio, which opened in 1986. She is known for her work with color.
Liquid Light Glass offers weekend classes for beginner students. Class pricing is determined per hour. Students can choose to create paperweights, cups, birds, hearts, bowls, vases, and ornaments.
4) Tesuque Glassworks
- Type: general glass art, glass blowing
- Classes: small group, demonstrations, 30 minutes to 2.5 hours
- Price: $185 per hour
- Website: http://www.tesuqueglass.com/index.html
- Telephone: (505) 988-2165
- Location: 1510 Bishop’s Lodge Rd. Santa Fe, NM 87506
Tesuque Glassworks was founded in 1975 by Charlie Miner. The studio offers daily demonstrations and classes that are suitable for beginner and intermediate glass artists.
Miner’s classes last for 30 minutes to 2.5 hours. The flexibility of the class length make this studio great for those with busy schedules.
Students learn the basics of glass blowing including gathering, reheating, shaping, and color application. The studio also offers a paperweight class for those interested in solid forms.
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