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FuseFest 2025 to take place in February

 

TRYON—Glass artists of all experience levels are invited to unleash their creativity at Tryon Arts & Crafts School’s fifth annual FuseFest, a three-day immersive glass art experience taking place from February 14 to February 16. This unique event offers a rare opportunity to learn from renowned glass artists Larry Pile, Deb Williams, and Barbara Cashman.

Pile is a Dallas, Texas-based artist who creates unique kiln-formed pieces characterized by bold colors, intense forms, and captivating textures. His artistic journey began with stained glass before he discovered his passion for the unpredictability of kiln-formed glass. For over two decades, his work has evolved to reflect a free-form, painterly style inspired by nature. 

Williams is an Asheville-based artist whose work is characterized by intricate cast and shattered glass pieces. These pieces reflect a deep engagement with energy and healing influenced by Native American and Eastern traditions. Deb’s artistic journey, influenced by diverse spiritual and philosophical studies, emphasizes transformation and resilience. 

Cashman is a Greensboro, NC-based artist who has been a glass fuser since 1979. She pioneered commercial fused glass tile, founding GlasTile Inc. in 1990 to create high-quality handmade and custom tiles. Known for her innovative solutions, Barbara developed SilkeMat®, a safe, non-carcinogenic, and easy-to-use refractory product for glass artists.

Attendees will delve into a variety of techniques, including mold-making, creating “mosaiku” glass wall tiles with Larry Pile, and crafting beautiful cast glass leaves with Deb Williams. Barbara Cashman will guide participants through her renowned SilkeMat® techniques.

FuseFest goes beyond hands-on workshops, providing a space for attendees to connect with fellow glass enthusiasts, witness captivating live craft demonstrations, and get acquainted with Tryon businesses. 

A welcoming party featuring heavy hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction, and live demonstrations will kick off the weekend’s festivities. Round table lunches with catered boxed lunches and an all-day coffee and pastry bar will fuel creativity throughout the event.

FuseFest 2025 is made possible thanks to the generous support of event sponsors: New View Realty, Overmountain Vineyards, Nature’s Storehouse, and Biltmore Winery. Industry sponsors include the North Carolina Arts Council with local agency Tryon Fine Arts Center, Slumpy’s: The Glass Mold Company, Silkemat®, Oceanside Glass & Tile, and Kakilaki Studio Arts.

The success of FuseFest also relies on the support of TACS’s community partners: Trade Street Creamery & Sandwich Shoppe, Tryon CoffeeHouse Co-op, Greenlife at the Mimosa Inn, Tryon Bottle, and First Peak Visitor Center. 

To register for FuseFest 2025, visit tryonartsandcrafts.org/fusefest-2025 or contact TACS at 828-859-8323. TACS’s offices will be closed for the holidays through January 1, but students may leave voicemails or register online.

For more information about the School, contact the office at (828) 859-8323 or visit tryonartsandcrafts.org. 

 

Submitted by Will Barclift