Where Glass is Avant Garde

I had to laugh earlier this week when I read Megan Headley’s blog in which she referenced that very first glasstec article I wrote. That was such a fun one to write and though it was six years ago I still see people every time I’m at glasstec who remember it and mention it. glasstec, like that article, is a truly unique experience and everyone always leaves looking forward to the next one.

This glasstec will be my fourth one and I know that I’ve learned a lot every time I’ve been there. For starters, while the show is primarily a machinery and equipment event, I know that halls 9, 10 and 11 will have the biggest display of glass itself. Everything from sculptures to artwork to architectural panels and flooring will be there. And yes, I know, there is also a stand or two tucked into the mix with a great display of beautiful glass jewelry and anyone who knows me knows that’s one of my weaknesses. However, I promise to not let it distract me from the real reason I’m at the show.

It’s pretty much a given that architectural trends start in Europe and make their way here. Europe is far ahead of North America when it comes to energy efficiency and solar, for instance (which, by the way, is the theme of this year’s event and I know that Megan will have lot s to report back to you all on that). It's the same with decorative glass, which has European roots and is now making a strong emergence in North America.

Take acid-etched glass. It was first used in Europe and has only in the past few years started to make a strong emergence here. So that’s a product that’s definitely tops on my list of “must sees” while I’m there.

Another product that always amazes me—another we’re starting to see more of here—is bent and curved glass. Some of the stands of bent and curved glass manufacturers are so … avant garde. Companies are doing some really, really exciting stuff and I’m eager to see what’s going to surface this year.

Yes, glasstec is a long, exhausting show. It runs from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for five days and spans nine halls. But I gotta tell you, it’s totally, completely worth it … but don’t even think about it walking it in uncomfortable shoes.