Glass Wheel Studio Opens in NFK

Glass Wheel Studio, a new contemporary art facility opened in the Norfolk Arts District and Jpixx was front and center ready to capture the excitement as it unfolded. Not only did the crew document the grand opening event, but they also captured some pretty stunning beauty shots of the interior and exterior of the studio, rotating galleries, artist studios and even some of the artist’s in action.

Take a peek inside to see this captivating new space in Norfolk, VA!

Located 128 W. Olney Rd in the heart of the Norfolk Art’s District, also known as, the Neon District–the 8,500-square-foot space drew out local artists and art lovers alike to witness the unveiling of the first exhibition, PROVENANCE.

The exhibition featured works by glass artist Jon Goldberg, mixed media artist Natalie Abrams and a 71-piece neon installation by Liz Berk.

The evening kicked off with delectable appetizers and I’m speaking from first-hand experience, they were exquisite. So exquisite that I shamelessly stalked the waiters around the studio throughout the evening for more. I definitely wasn’t the only one *coughs… Jessa! lol

But food and champagne was served by the ever so kind waiters throughout the event as people mingled and feasted their eyes on the main attraction–the art!

The Director of Glass Wheel Studio, Cheryl White, welcomed attendees to the event and talked about the importance of GWS in the Hampton Roads area.

“Given the region’s deeply rooted glassmaking history, Glass Wheel Studio is the perfect venue to foster a deeper appreciation of contemporary art in glass and beyond,” she said.

Jpixx covered the Neon Festival that was featured on Cox 11. Check it out here!

Pictured below is Ashley and Kris Knepper, honored guests at the GWS Grand opening. Ashley is the co-owner of Reed & Associates, which is Glass Wheel Studio’s advertising agency of record.

“There’s no better place to come out and see all the amazing talent amount us,” said Jessa Gaul, who photographed the event.

Jon Goldberg is a Philadelphia artist whose work is deeply rooted in nature. He utilizes both hot and cold glassmaking techniques. The light bounced off of each piece of art that created a sparkle effect from afar. It was quite breathtaking.

The photos above show Jon working on the pieces he created for the exhibit.

North Carolina-based mixed-media artist Natalie Abrams who’s work is reminiscent of coral reefs is featured at GWS. She manipulates layers of wax and acrylic paint to create her pieces.

Brooklyn-based artist Liz Berk contributed at 71-piece neon installation. It is almost 20 ft long and is inspired by studies of crop circle formations. Berk’s installation was last seen in 2004 at the Neon Museum in Los Angeles.

Other fascinating contemporary art pieces were on display as well.

If you haven’t checked out the exhibition in all it’s glory, you have until January 17th–so hurry!

Jpixx also shot a cool video capturing the making of the mural that is painted on the side of the Glass Wheel Studio. Check it out below!