CALGARY -- Art lovers will have a chance to see a pair of internationally renowned glass blowers hone their craft in Black Diamond this weekend.
Award-winning artists Julia Reimer and Tyler Rock have been working with glass for decades and their art is now in some high-profile private collections, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Ottawa, as well as the Emperor of Japan.
All of which begs the question: why glass? Why not oil paintings? Or ceramics? Or sculpture?
"I love glass," said Tyler Rock. "There's just so many things about it that are always challenging me and forcing me to think about things a little differently."
This weekend the two are opening their Firebrand Glass Studio to the public, where visitors can experience the heat of the furnace that liquefies glass at a temperature around 1500 C and see some of their artwork and one-of-a-kind commissioned awards.
Reimer said, "It's just a really nice way for us to make something that's a special piece that honours people that are excellent in their field."
It’s a rare opportunity to see the glass blowers at work and get a chance to take home some of their art.
“Not only will visitors have a memorable experience, they’ll also be giving gifts or experiences that last a lifetime, while supporting local artists and local culture,” said Reimer.
The Firebrand Christmas Open House is part of The Most Beautiful Art Tour in Alberta. It features seven other stops in the area where visitors can see local art.
The Christmas Open House goes Nov. 30 from 11 a.m. to 5p.m., and is located at 634 Third Street S.W. in Black Diamond.
Learn more about the artists here.
