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Art Program Glass Blowout

ESU Glass Guild Blowout 2026

Each year the Emporia State University's Glass Guild holds the annual “Blowout.” This event always draws students from high schools, ESU students from all studio areas and other areas of the campus, administrators, families and members of the general public. It always provides a large amount of positive publicity and exposure for the glass program, the Department of Art and ESU in general. A nationally known glass artist will demonstrate hot glass working techniques for the ESU community and the public with the assistance of ESU students. 


Emporia State University’s Glass Blowout Returns Saturday April 4

Emporia, KS – Emporia State University invites the community to experience the mesmerizing art of glassblowing at the annual Glass Blowout on Saturday, April, 4 2026. Held at the ESU Art Annex on Highland Street, Time is still to be determined. This free event offers a unique opportunity to witness skilled artists transforming molten glass into breathtaking works of art.

Throughout the day, attendees can watch live demonstrations, meet talented glass artists, and learn more about the intricate glass blowing process. The event showcases this fascinating craft's artistry, precision and creativity, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts, students, and families alike.

Following the day’s demonstrations, guests can take home a piece of the experience by participating in the Glass Guild Art Auction, held immediately after the event. The auction features stunning, handcrafted pieces created throughout the day, with proceeds directly benefiting the ESU Glass Program. Funds raised help support student opportunities, program development, and the continuation of this unique art form at Emporia State.

Whether you’re an art lover, a collector or simply curious about the glassblowing process, the Glass Blowout is an unforgettable experience you won’t want to miss.


WORKING DEMOS

APRIL 4th

ESU Art Annex, Located on Highland Street

Glass Working Demos 9:00 am- 4:00 pm

Live Auction will take place following the demonstrations at 4:30 in the Art Annex.

About The Artists Samuel Spees and Blaine Steiner

Samuel Spees is an independent artist, designer, and craftsperson from Dayton, Ohio. While pursuing football at Centre College in Kentucky, he discovered glassmaking, which quickly became his new favorite “sport.” In 2022, Sam began collaborating with his wife, Blaine Steiner, forming a husband-and-wife studio practice rooted in experimentation and shared vision. Sam’s work reflects both the mental focus and physical skill of glassmaking, incorporating traditional Venetian techniques alongside American influences to create playful, experimental, and technically driven work. Blaine, an MFA graduate of Tulane University with a focus on large-scale cast glass sculpture, considers herself a sculptor who values glass for its contradictions; strength and fragility, structure and fluidity. Her work challenges expectations of glass through scale and process. Together, they create a wide range of functional and sculptural objects informed by memory, sensory experience, and material exploration. They currently live and work in Nashville, Tennessee, where they continue to build their collaborative studio practice.

Samuel Spees and Blaine Steiner