Forde/Wilson Glass in Celo offers glass work distinct for its vibrant colors and intricate patterns. Loretta Forde and David Wilson met in Celo while both were pursuing their work in glass. Loretta was born in Philadelphia, PA and moved to Burnsville in 1982. She took an interest in glassblowing while she taught at Arthur Morgan School. After some classes and an apprenticeship, she built her first studio in 1991. Loretta taught glassblowing classes to junior high school students, and others through Mayland Community College. David was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and moved to Burnsville in 1981. He apprenticed with several influential glass artists in the area before building his own studio in 1986. David has taught numerous experimental neon classes at Penland School of Craft and workshops around the country. Loretta and David merged their practices in 2003 when they opened their studio, Forde/Wilson Glass. Today, they are members of Southern Highland Craft Guild and Piedmont Craftsmen and are represented in many galleries and craft shops throughout the region.
Visitors to Forde/Wilson Glass can see a full, working glass shop. The work produced is primarily functional glass. Loretta and David produce a wide array of drinking ware, vases, ornaments, and paperweights, as well as unique one-of-a-kind pieces. Their techniques include sandblasting, photosensitive glass, off-hand sculpture, fluorescent glass, and neon plasma. Work from Forde/Wilson glass ranges from exotic artwork to everyday goblets. The artists like to say that they make “glass for the people!” Visitors can view the process at work and browse a wide-ranging inventory.
Open by appointment.
