Michael Amis

"Hot glass captured my imagination the first time I worked with it. I continue to be amazed by its endless possibilities. Whether I’m developing a new technical process or taking an old one in new directions, I enjoy pushing myself as a glassblower and designer. I'm always excited to see where the creative process leads me next."

For Michael glassblowing is a process of discovery and experimentation. By listening to the material he allows the designs to evolve in unexpected directions which keeps the work challenging and rewarding for him, and the designs fresh and unique for the viewer.

Blending expressive forms with vivid color, Michael uses a mix of traditional and non-traditional glassblowing techniques to create his functional and sculptural glass pieces.

Michael received his diploma in Product Design from Kent Institute of Art and Design and continued on to the University of Wolverhampton, West Midlands, UK, where he earned a BA with Honors in Glass. He came to the United States to enter Joel Myers’ graduate program at Illinois State University and received an MFA in 1998. After graduation, he designed and built a hot shop for Kokomo Opalescent Glass, where he worked as a studio director, designer, and gaffer until he opened his own studio in October 2007. He is currently in Bloomington, Illinois, creating functional glass designs and sculpture.