What is GLASSfest?

An annual gathering of Art Glass Retailers for education, inspiration, and recreation. Quite simply, it's the time of year when our members get together and have fun, learn from each other and enjoy each other's company! 

 

History of GLASSfest

In August 2003, a historic event took place in Asheville, NC. An educational conference was held that offered a wide array of affordable classes, roundtable discussions, and social dinners. Hosted by Gary Newlin of A Touch of Glass, this was the first ever event of it's kind. Gary arranged for teachers, accommodations, restaurants, site seeing tours, travel, and scheduled everything for almost two weeks of education, cleverly disguised as fun.

 

What made this event unique? Only the owners of retail stained glass stores could take advantage of the opportunity. Aimed at teaching the teacher to add diversity to the class schedule and increase the bottom line, the event was conceptualized, organized, and achieved by Gary Newlin and other volunteers from Retailers of Art Glass and Supplies (RAGS), a not for profit organization for stained glass retailers.