Creativity and beauty flow through the Smokies no matter when you happen to visit this breathtaking part of the country. The colors of every season speak to even the most jaded and stoic amongst us. So it may not come as much of a surprise that artists are drawn toward living in the midst of a real-live work of art.
At Firefly Glass Studio in Gatlinburg, you’ll meet Nancy Hoff, a woman who specializes in glass art. This creative talent has a space that is a part studio and part shop. From tiles to jewelry, her display is entirely unique. Pick up a funky clock for your kitchen or a cool pair of earrings, and rest assured that no one back home will have one like it. The stuff you’ll find here is truly one of a kind. But before you chalk this up as just another store, you might want to consider just how much it has to offer.
Take a Class
If you’re looking for an indoor activity that’s great for both kids and adults, this is your chance to make fused glass art. A rainy day in the mountains won’t be quite so disappointing when you’re the proud owner of a homemade souvenir. This engrossing craft can be anything you make it. Tiles can be abstract and modern, or straightforward and scenic. From colorful balloons to deconstructed sailboats, give yourself an outlet of expression that can take the heat.
Take a Tour
Nancy has been known to take people on a little spin around her space, sharing her own stories as she goes. One of the best things about meeting the artist is the chance to ask them questions about how they conceptualize their pieces, what techniques they’ve picked up along the way, and which artists have inspired to take new risks. After you’ve learned about her process, you may just find yourself wanting to take up a new hobby by the time you get home.
Part of a Tradition
You’ll find the Firefly Glass Studio in the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community. This well-known area is the place to be for all things artisan, whether you’re looking for metalsmithing, paintings, basket weaving, or glass. Visit Nancy Hoff for an hour or two and then make your way through some of the other shops to get a better feel of the range of talent located in the Great Smoky Mountains. There’s just no telling what you’ll find when there’s a new collection for sale every day.
Gatlinburg has plenty of things to see and do, and you really can’t go wrong when you surrender to the spirit of the city. This place is all about finding peace under every tree and on top of every peak. The artists here offer their own interpretation of the culture here, and they welcome you to take a piece of it home. Firefly Glass Studio is the perfect place to start your journey.
Insider Tips:
– Firefly Glass Studio is located in the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, where you can find far more wares than just fused glass.
– This boutique studio offers tours and classes for guests of all ages.
– This place does not have much of an online presence, so you may need to make a few calls to schedule your visit.