Our History
The original Glassworks Studio and Gallery was established in 1986 by glass artist Garth Mudge. Some of you will remember the original location on Moraine Ave next to the rock shop. Later, in the early 90's, the shop moved to its current location at 323 West Elkhorn Avenue where the Estes Park Lumber yard was formerly located. Much of the shelving in the gallery was made from remnants left behind from the old saw mill.
Since its inception, Glassworks (now Patterson Glassworks Studio and Gallery) has been a place where people can watch live glassblowing, many for the first time. Additionally, Glassworks has been an artist incubator of sorts. Several professional glass artists have started their careers right here, including the current owner, Gerald Patterson, who was Garth's third apprentice. Jerry has worked at the studio since around 1997 when he began work as a volunteer in the studio for two and a half years to "get his foot in the door". Jerry took ownership at the end of 2012, and the legacy continues as new family traditions are formed, and as people discover Glassblowing here at the studio.
About Glassblowing
The glass blowing process begins by gathering molten glass from a furnace onto a blow pipe. The temperature of the glass exceeds 2000 degrees Fahrenheit at this point. Color is then applied in a myriad of fashions. When the amount of glass is set and the colors have been manipulated to the artist’s satisfaction, a bubble is blown into the glass. The bubble is then coaxed into the desired form using a variety of tools (jacks, paddles, wet newspaper). Much of the work involves two or more bubbles that are fused together in a process known as incalmo. Finally, the finished piece is placed into an annealing oven where it cools slowly at a controlled rate.
GLASS BLOWING
Working with molten glass and forming into something special is an art that few have been able to master. From shaping to defining the piece of art, a lot goes into each and every piece. When you step into our shop, you’ll see the expertise that is clearly visible in our art.
Step into the array of colors, from golds, oranges, blues, purples, and more. We have vases, dishes, and art pieces. We have speckled glass shells, swirling decorative bowls, and plates that look like geodes. There is something for every art lover.
TORCHWORKED GLASS
At our gallery, we use different techniques to get our glass how we want it. One of the methods we use is torchwork, which heats the glass so we can shape the glass with tools and quick hand movements. You can view our glass blowers create beautiful hand-made art throughout the day.
There are glasses that can be utilized as drinkware or just decorative use. Many pieces have designs that make them look like they were shells found upon the beach, polished and shining. Catch the sunlight or moonlight in your home with glass from our art gallery, there is no better décor!
STAINED GLASS
If you loved stained glass, we have the finest! We have designs infused with color in intricate shapes, and hanging plates, sun designs, and jewelry containers. Your loved one will be thrilled when you gift them with a lovely stained glass piece.
We have glass designs for every occasion, in spring, summer, or winter and fall colors. Adorn your home with something that catches the light. Bring home a tremendous work of art that will draw the eye of admirers. Visit our store and find a stunning piece of art that compliments your home or office today.
LAMPWORKED GLASS
Have you heard of lampworked glass? Lampworking is a type of glasswork where a torch or lamp is primarily used to melt the glass. Once in a molten state, the glass is formed by blowing and shaping with tools and hand movements. It is also known as flameworking or torchworking, as the modern practice no longer uses oil-fueled lamps.
ART GLASS
You’ll find sculptures and other handmade options of art glass at our studio. Our blown glass comes in many shapes, sizes, and colors. Some pieces you will see rolled in powdered or chipped pieces of colored glass that will create surreal patterns and colors in each piece.
Whether you are searching for a lovely perfume bottle, or want a piece to frame on grandma’s wall, we have something unique and special, just like your loved one. For wondrous gift ideas, head on over and look at our selection of art glass.
Techniques
About Us
Our Gallery
Our glass gallery is a favorite of locals and travelers alike. There are glass pieces that you will not find anywhere else. We pride ourselves in the quality and care that we put into our art pieces. We have dishes that look like solar flares and bowls that look like their colors came from an oil spill. Beautiful!
There are glasses that can be utilized as drinkware or just decorative use. Many pieces have designs that make them look like they were shells found upon the beach, polished and shining. Catch the sunlight or moonlight in your home with glass from our art gallery, there is no better décor!