Forged in Fire Lecture: 19th Century Innovations

In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, and in partnership with America 250, Forged in Fire at Museum of Glass will combine illustrated lectures, live glassblowing demonstrations, and multimedia content to trace the evolution of American glassmaking, from colonial Jamestown to the contemporary works of Dale Chihuly. Each event illuminates the artistry, design, and cultural significance of glass as both a decorative and functional medium. Forged in Fire will reach diverse audiences throughout the Puget Sound region and beyond via in-person events and live streams, and build community pride in the region’s unique role in the American Studio Glass Movement — a movement co-founded by Tacoma-native Dale Chihuly. By combining history, artistry, and live craft, this program exemplifies how decorative arts can spark curiosity, fuel discovery, and create shared cultural experiences.

Regular Museum admission is required upon arrival but please RSVP!

Museum of Glass will host six unique public sessions pairing glass history talks by renowned glass artist and historian Walter Lieberman with live demonstrations by the Museum’s internationally acclaimed Hot Shop Team. Each lecture focuses on a specific period of time in glassmaking history and is accompanied by a demonstration that recreates period-specific objects and techniques, giving audiences tangible insight into the evolution of glass as a decorative art form. All lectures will take place on select Saturdays 1pm in the Museum of Glass Hot Shop. The glassmaking demonstrations will follow at 2pm.

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Host or Publisher Museum of Glass