Started in 1998 by Lee Wassink, Nathan Sheafor and Butch Kreuzer, The Glass Forge quickly became the “hot spot” of Grants Pass. When entering the 5,000 sq.ft. gallery and studio, viewers can almost touch the molten glass. The furnace that holds 300 pounds of molten glass is always on and running at 2000 F degrees. The blowers take their blowpipes and dip them into the glass, getting an apple-sized gather on the end. After adding color and manipulating the glass with tools whose designs date back two thousand years, the glass takes shape. The piece is then slowly cooled in a kiln-like oven. The gallery has bowls and vases, sculptures and pendant lights. If you don't see what you like, you can have it made specifically for you, sometimes even on the same day. Tours are more than welcome, and the only requirement is to call ahead with groups of 10 or more. Kids are also welcome to come and watch this ancient craft. The studio is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm and Saturday from 10am to 4pm. You can watch glass blowing demonstrations Monday through Friday from 8am to 4-ish pm, and most Saturdays (call ahead). Closed Sundays. On the first Friday of every month, Grants Pass has an Art Walk and the artists of The Glass Forge have the chance to show off their craft from 6 to 9pm. WHERE: 501 S.W. G St., Grants Pass MORE INFO: 541-955-0815, GlassForge.com
