Sometimes you have to crawl before you walk and walk before you run, but once you gain momentum, the fun begins to soar.
Such is the case for the new Fusion Gallery & Studio at the crossroads of downtown Bridgman. The new business has taken flight thanks to the dedication of three outstanding local glass artists in the region who have converged into the new operation.
Fusion Gallery and Studio is operated by Pam Bower of Paw Paw, Cindy Fielding of Benton Harbor and Carolyn O’Hearn of St. Joseph. You’ll find examples of their art at several institutions and businesses throughout the area, including such notable installations as at the Inn at Harbor Shores, the Lincoln Township Library and at Timothy’s Restaurant in Harbor County, just to name a few. Their glass work has received several awards from art museums in Michigan and Indiana.
It all gained critical mass when three years ago they started “Glass on the Go” wherein they employed the teachings of beginning fused glass classes at various restaurants and wineries in Michigan’s Great Southwest.
Now that they have gotten large quantities of people excited about creating fused glass they felt the need to get a home base of operations for students wanting to learn more. This summer beginner glass classes are being held at their new gallery at 10am every Tuesday and Saturday and drop ins are welcome for those classes.
The classes are $35 and includes instruction, all materials and firing of your project. Visitors to the area are welcome to join in the fun and the crew will be happy to mail your projects home to you if needed.
Advanced classes are also being offered one Saturday each month. For additional information you’re welcome to call Cindy at 773-882-9407 or click the link below for a complete schedule of all their class locations. They will be happy to arrange private classes for groups of friends or businesses as well. Here’s the link: http://Glassonthegoclasses.com
The new Fusion Gallery &n Studio features several regional artists. Along with the 3 owners you will find such offerings as:
- Exquisite blown glass vessels by Judy Hallisy of Saugatuck
- Fused glass art by Catherine Pampalone of Stevensville, Candy McClung of Lawton and Suzanne Fortenbacher of St. Joseph
- Mosaic wall art by Greta Hurst of Baroda
- Flame-work jewelry by Carol Blumenberg of Bridgman
- Stain glass art by May Schultz-Reed of Eau Claire and Barbara Hogarth of Fennville
- Metal wall art and hand crafted sterling silver jewelry by Stephanie Buysse Mishawaka
The owners and several of the other artists are available to work with clients creating one of a kind pieces for commercial or residential needs.
Among the range of offerings you will find wall art, indoor, outdoor and hanging glass sculptures, murals, back-splashes and stain glass panels.
The Gallery hours are currently 10am Tuesday mornings, 11am Friday and Saturday and noon on Sunday and you will find them happy to open by appointment Monday, Wednesday and Thursday by placing a call to 773-882-9407.
You will find the new Fusion Gallery and Studio located at 9723 Red Arrow Hiighway in Bridgman.
