Master glassmakers from the Corning Museum of Glass will create works of art in live demonstrations at the Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival, September 12–13. (Submitted photo)

NORWICH – For the first time in festival history, visitors to the Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival will have the opportunity to watch master glassmakers from the Corning Museum of Glass create works of art before their eyes during live flameworking demonstrations throughout the festival weekend, September 12–13.

Presented continuously during both days of the festival, the demonstrations will showcase the centuries-old art of flameworking, where artists use a high-temperature torch to melt glass rods and tubes before carefully shaping them into intricate sculptures, animals, ornaments, beads, and other decorative objects. Dating back to ancient times and flourishing in France and Venice during the 15th century, flameworking remains one of the most captivating forms of glass artistry practiced today.

The Corning Museum of Glass, whose mission is to "Tell the world about glass," presents these demonstrations across the region to introduce audiences to the beauty, history, and craftsmanship behind the medium. Their custom-built demonstration booth allows festivalgoers to safely experience the artistry up close while interacting with knowledgeable museum staff and professional glassmakers.

Michele Ericksen, Executive Director of Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival said, "For the past three years, I've been working to find a way to bring the Corning Museum of Glass to Colorscape because I knew it would be an unforgettable experience for our visitors. Having one of the world's premier glass museums demonstrating their craft right here in Norwich is incredibly exciting. I couldn't be happier that we're finally able to make it happen."

The live demonstrations add another hands-on artistic experience to Colorscape's already diverse lineup of more than 120 juried artists, three stages of live music, literary arts, family activities, and interactive exhibits. Visitors are encouraged to stop by throughout the weekend, as each demonstration is unique and different pieces are created throughout the day and will be raffled off to Colorcape attendees.

"The Corning Museum of Glass is known around the world for celebrating innovation, creativity, and craftsmanship," Ericksen added. "Their presence perfectly complements Colorscape's mission of making exceptional arts experiences accessible to everyone."

The 32nd annual Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival takes place Saturday and Sunday, September 12–13, in Norwich's East and West Parks. Admission is free thanks to the generous support of sponsors, donors, members, and volunteers.

For more information about Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival, visit www.colorscape.org.

About Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival: Recognized as one of the country's top 200 fine art and design classic and contemporary craft shows by Sunshine Artist Magazine, Colorscape Chenango has celebrated premier artists in downtown Norwich since 1995. This free, two-day festival in September features over 100 creators displaying and selling their paintings, sculptures, fabric art, fine crafts, photography, and more. Colorscape also offers nationally renowned musical performers, poetry and literary arts, food, and interactive art activities for all ages. The 2026 festival will be held rain or shine September 11–13 in Norwich's East and West Parks.

- Information from Colorscape Chenango