Behind the Glass Community Nights at WSG
Water Street Glassworks ▪ Behind the Glass Community Nights at WSG
- Discover the process, meet the artists, and experience glass in action.
- An inside look at the art, techniques, and people shaping glass.
Friday, September 25, 2026, 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Water Street Glassworks (WSG) is excited to welcome back Edgar Valentine to WSG as our next Visiting Artist. Valentine, who first visited WSG in 2021, returns for a multi-day residency that includes working with our FIRED UP! teen artists, teaching an advanced sculptural glass class, and taking center stage for this special Behind the Glass Artist Demo Night.
Drawing inspiration from local street art, fashion, African American history, and the natural surroundings of the Pacific Northwest, Edgar creates both sculptural and functional glasswork. He brought his distinctive creative perspective to a national audience as a contestant on Netflix’s hit competition series Blown Away.
"Blown Away not only had me thinking of what to make on the spot, but after the show it opened new doors of interest to glassblowing techniques." - Edgar Valentine
Join us for an evening in the hot shop as Edgar demonstrates his sculptural glass techniques, shares his creative process, and brings his work to life.
Expanding What’s Possible in the Studio
Since 2004, WSG has provided hands-on classes in glassblowing, beadmaking, fusing, stained glass, and mosaics. The Visiting Artist Program builds on that foundation by bringing new energy and perspective into the studio—creating opportunities for both new and returning students to learn directly from practicing artists.
In addition to working with Fired Up! students and participating in Community Nights, visiting artists will teach specialized classes, offering deeper learning experiences and introducing techniques not typically available within WSG’s regular programming.
Sponsorship Opportunities Available
WSG is currently seeking sponsors and community partners to support the Visiting Artist Program and Community Nights. These initiatives offer a unique opportunity to align with dynamic, community-driven arts programming. For more information, please contact WSG Executive Director Donna Sauers at donna@waterstreetglassworks.org or call 269.925.5555.
Get Involved
Community Nights will be held monthly at Water Street Glassworks. To learn more, attend an event, or explore sponsorship opportunities, visit: waterstreetglassworks.org
Event Details:
Date: Friday, September 25
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Location: Water Street Glassworks - 140 Water Street, Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Phone: 269.935.555
About Water Street Glassworks
School, Studios, & Gallery Dedicated to the Glass & Metal Fire Arts
Water Street Glassworks is a non-profit, 501 (c)(3) school and public access studio, proudly fostering creativity in the Benton Harbor Arts District. Since opening our doors in January 2004, we've offered transformative classes in the glass and metal arts, along with engaging exhibitions and events for all ages. Our commitment to fostering community renewal through partnerships with educational entities is at the heart of everything we do, helping to ignite a cultural renaissance in Benton Harbor.
