A Positive Outlook into the Future: ‘Glass Half Full’ Has Ribbon Cutting in Salisbury
SALISBURY, Md. – A new glassblowing studio in Salisbury held a ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday afternoon. Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce organized the event inviting Salisbury’s business community.
Eli Cecil, one of the co-owners, talks about the things they will be selling. “One-of-a-kind pieces, if it’s a simple Christmas ornament, or a gallery debut piece of art.”
The studio is dedicated to making glass art accessible, engaging, and memorable. The mission is for Glass Half Full to provide a niche within the business community in Salisbury.
“You can tell that the people love it. We are here at our ribbon cutting, and the people love it.” The group built the business from the ground up, opening the studio last year.
Community members had the chance to learn more about the process of making glass artistry. Shawn Harrison explains that they have a variety of price points for consumers.
“Training classes run $129, especially a good date night. It’s a great thing to do for that. Some of the other stuff, gallery level stuff, goes up to over $5,000 dollars, but typically here for retail, it’s ranging from $90 – $350.”
The process starts with 2,000 degree molten glass, which is then shaped into beautiful masterpieces. Cecil said that one of the studios’ primary missions is to function as a training ground for upcoming artists.
The group has students who take courses at UMES and Salisbury University, and provides them extra training and education classes.
“It was really important for me to pave the way for other postgraduates and students,” said Cecil. “We have already had 2 interns, and a third one starting soon.”
These hands-on creative experiences allow visitors and collectors to gather, bringing commerce to the city. Harrison told WMDT he wants Glass Half Full to be one of the bigger attractions for anyone looking to experience the arts.
“What are you going to do in Salisbury, Maryland? You are going to come see a show, maybe watch a football game. You can come to the glass shop, and we’re helping with the arts.”
