The Museum of American Glass is the foundation of our program infrastructure. Accredited by the America Alliance of Museums, the Museum houses the nation’s largest collection of American glass and encompasses examples of the earliest glass objects made in America to 18th century glass to fine contemporary glass art. The Museum’s glass and library collections are a primary resource for scholars, collectors, other institutions and artists.
The Artist Studios facilitate the work of a multi-level artist community including staff, visiting artists, assistants, and students, while offering public access and interactive programming. The Glass Studio, considered the “heartbeat” of the organization, is the primary asset from which we achieve our goals to share the creative process with public audiences in an extraordinary public facility.
The Creative Glass Center of America (CGCA) offers fellowships to emerging and mid-career artists and is an exceptional resource for artists working in glass. Through an annual peer review process, 10 artists are awarded working residencies, providing 24-hour studio access, materials, housing, and stipends. The Resident Studio Assistant Program continues to offer exceptional professional development for younger artists.
The Ceramic Studio is also a magnet for visitors of all ages. An internship program and a seasoned Noborigama wood kiln have catalyzed a community of potters. Other studios feature flamework (torch-made glass) and paper arts.
Down Jersey Folklife offers programs and temporary exhibitions related to the folk traditions and cultural diversity of southern New Jersey and also has special exhibits highlighting the region’s many ethnic groups and art forms.
At WheatonArts, we value the creative process, and the many ways in which engagement with the arts introduces learning skills and strengthens basic classroom curriculum goals. In addition to all of the many wonderful exhibits, demonstrations and other attractions throughout WheatonArts, we offer special programs and classes for students and adults.
Up to 10 additional special weekend events augment daily programs. In addition to the Festival of Fine Craft and GlassWeekend, two WheatonArts signature events, there are numerous community events including multicultural festivals. Look for upcoming news on our Wheaton Wide Open Weekends, sponsored by PNC Arts Alive!