Art of Fire Contemporary Glass Studio, Inc,
1 Name, 3 Artists, Many Facets

Art of Fire began in 1984 when Foster Holcombe and Theda Hansen lit the first furnace in 1984 at the Maryland Renaissance Festival. We've been creating glass work and teaching classes at our current location, a re-purposed dairy barn in Northern Montgomery County, since 1999.

Foster's interest in glass began in 1976 with his stained glass studio in Denver, CO. While attending a summer seminar in enameling techniques at Pilchuck in 1978 he became interested in hot glass. From 1980-81 he studied glassblowing, decorating and technology in Stourbridge, the heart of England's glass industry.

In 1985, Theda Hansen joined Foster, and together they have designed a line of glass uniquely their own. Between them, Foster and Theda bring you more than 65 years experience in creating beautiful objects.

Todd Hansen joined the studio in 1999, Bruce Ferguson in 2000, and Josh Ries in 2003. Each brings his own individual style and collaborative efforts to Art of Fire while assisting with production and instructing glass blowing classes. They also contribute to the class catalog at The Studio of Corning Museum of Glass.

Our facility remains the Mid-Atlantic's largest studio, with ongoing classes offered at all skill levels. We offer the most comprehensive course utilizing a basic class outline that serves as a general guideline while allowing an opportunity for creative input and personalized instruction.

An enjoyable, scenic day trip to the rolling hills of the Agricultural Reserve in Montgomery County is a short drive from Washington D.C., Northern VA, and the suburbs of Maryland. We look forward to your visit.