VERMONT Magazine Summer 24 | Page 14

Beyond the Glass

Robert DuGrenier blends artisan craftsmanship with creative innovation at his glassblowing studio in Townshend
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Robert DuGrenier ’ s studio represents the pinnacle of artistic achievement in the world of glassblowing . Founded in 1980 , Robert DuGrenier Associates , Inc . began as a design studio that specialized in glass sculptural pieces . Over the past four-and-a-half decades , DuGrenier has developed multiple lines of gorgeous glass artworks . He has collaborated with celebrated architects and designers , creating bespoke installations and chandeliers featured in prestigious international venues , hotels , stores , museums , and private residences . DuGrenier ’ s works are featured in the permanent collections of esteemed museums around the world , including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Corning Glass Museum .
In addition to high-concept art installations and innovative , customized pieces , Du- Grenier also offers a range of accessible glass products that showcase his mastery of glassblowing in more practical formats . Highlights include stunning items like handblown glass pumpkins and meticulously designed maple syrup bottles , which are filled with delicious Vermont maple syrup from his own sugaring operation at Taft Hill Farm . DuGrenier ’ s studio also produces hand-blown glass tableware , paperweights , and decorative pieces , each of which is crafted with the same attention to detail and quality as his larger installations . These products highlight DuGrenier ’ s diverse capabilities , as well as his commitment to furthering the accessibility of artisan , hand-blown glass . “ I ’ ve always been driven by the challenge of transforming a molten material into something that captures imagination ,” shares DuGrenier . n
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