Island Glassworks

 

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Kuang J.

New Orleans, LA

6/10/2008

In sum, this is perhaps the most unique spot to pick up one of a kind island artwork, and for locals, the only place to go to learn the art of glass blowing.

I will start out with the negative--this place is hard to find.  I had to call up to figure out exactly where they are located, since their sign is rather small.  Once I got the inside info (across from Midas, look for the muffler sign) things got much easier.

So much for the negative--Island Glassworks is worth the search, especially for anyone with an interest in local art.  It is kind of hard to describe the place--it is half glassblowing studio (open to the public) and half art gallery.  The owner/artist grew up in Hawaii and seems really passionate about glassblowing.  It was a trip walking around the studio, checking out the furnaces and the finished pieces while he explained the process of artistic creation.  Having the furnaces on site made the whole place super authentic--it makes me wish every gallery was also an art studio.  I ended up buying these beautiful hand-blown pint glasses--they have this sweet floral pattern that is unlike anything I have seen on a pint glass.  

So for anyone with an interest in local art, I say check this place out.  If you are only in town visiting, drop by on your way back from Kailua Beach; I would bet you can find something far more original than your average tourist.  If you are a local, you can find some quality artwork for your place.  If I was going to be in town longer, I would probably sign up for classes (you can learn to blow glass here) but for now I will have to be content with my pint glasses.

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