FuseFest 2025

Friday to Sunday, February 14-16

Featuring Barbara Cashman, Larry Pile, and Deb Williams

All Experience Levels Are Welcome


Click Here to Register for FuseFest. >>


 

SCHEDULE:
FRIDAY

6:00 – 7:30 Social
Heavy Hors D’Oeuvres
Craft Demonstrations
SATURDAY
8:30 Check-In / Coffee & Pastries
9:00 – 9:15 Orientation
9:15 – 12:15 Class 1, 2, 3
12:15 – 1:30 Lunch (Preordered)
1:30 – 4:30 Class 1, 2, 3
SUNDAY
8:30 Check-In / Coffee & Pastries
9:00 – 9:15 Orientation
9:15 – 12:15 Class 1, 2, 3
12:15 – 1:30 Lunch (Preordered)
Group Photographs

 


 

INSTRUCTORS INFO:

 

 

BARBARA CASHMAN

 

PROJECT: Create your Mold

 

Participants will learn the basics of mold-making using the SilkeMat® process and kiln firing. These molds can be used to cast or shape glass by heating it in a kiln, allowing for the creation of a variety of forms.

 

Barbara Cashman is an American glass artist based in Greensboro, NC. 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. She also introduced a special coating for Silkemat® to make it more rigid and a solution to prevent unwanted glass surface changes (i.e., devitrification), further contributing to the advancement of glass art techniques.

 

 

LARRY PILE

 

PROJECT:  Glass Weaving

 

Participants will learn the ins and outs of weaving glass into panels and other shapes which can be used on their own or incorporated into a large project.

 

Larry Pile is an American glass artist based in Dallas, Texas. He specializes in creating unique kiln-formed pieces characterized by bold colors, intense forms, and captivating textures. Larry began his artistic journey with stained glass before discovering 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. An accomplished instructor, Larry teaches at the McKinney Art House and Oil & Cotton. His work is exhibited at various festivals and galleries, including the Artisan’s Collective and Dallas’ Omni Hotel.

 

 

DEB WILLIAMS

 

PROJECT: Cast Glass Leaves

 

Participants will replicate natural forms like leaves in glass by shaping frit in molds. They will then enhance the form and dimensions of their work through a second kiln firing.

 

Deb Williams is an American glass artist based in Asheville, North Carolina. Her work, characterized by intricate cast and shattered glass pieces, reflects 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. She exhibits at Mark Bettis Studio and Gallery and Lexington Glassworks.

 


 

FUSEFEST IS SUPPORTED BY THE NORTH CAROLINA ARTS COUNCIL, A DIVISION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES.


 

New Student, General Info about TACS (.pdf)

Local Lodging Information (FirstPeak of the Blue Ridge)

 


 

Click Here to Register for FuseFest. >>