The Soapbox Series Vol. 6
GLASSBLOWING IN AN EL NIÑO YEAR IN MEXICO
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Stemless wine glass
As a craft, glassblowing is pretty incredible in and of itself. It’s a fragile process, that in turn produces a delicate piece of functional artwork.
We found our favorite glassblowing workshop five years ago on a sourcing trip in Guadalajara, where we darted into every doorway that would allow us. As we met one artisan, we were introduced to another, and continued to build our relationships and friendships over the years
There are places throughout the world renowned for their handmade glassware, but the thing that makes the work we’ve observed outstanding here in particular, is that it’s a craft that’s done year-round standing in front of a blazing fire. And the first time we watched glass being blown was in April in Tonalá. And of course, it was during El Niño when temperatures blew records and we all wondered when our sanity would return.
It was 90 degrees and humid in the shade. And yet, in the cavernous workshop multiple open fires blazed as groups of 3-4 men worked together to create each piece of recycled glassware. It was yet another time in my education of craftsmanship in Mexico that I was reminded of how woefully inept I would be at the task that these artisans do every single day. And not only does this workshop work with recycled glass, they create different bespoke shapes, colors and pieces…accessible functional artwork with purpose.
Glass Water Carafe & Cup
ABOUT TONALÁ
Tonalá is a sprawling neighborhood of Guadalajara with a legacy of craftsmanship that’s passed down through generations. Unlike its neighbor Tlaquepaque, it’s not quite set up for tourism with restaurants and stores interspersed among the workshops…it’s a bustling network of boulevards and tiny side streets where craftspeople do their work and then sell pieces through small storefronts. There are streets lined with palm baskets, others with textiles, ceramics and glass…we’ve been visiting every year for the past five years and we still happen upon new discoveries. You can hire a car or rent one, but plan to walk a lot and carry a water bottle. And know that there’s no way you can take everything home with you, so be discerning and plan for repeat visits.
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