Wildfire Studios is an educational flamework glassblowing studio and multimedia artist retreat located in Burnsville North Carolina. Nesstled in the beautiful Toe River Valley at the base of Mt. Mitchell we strive to make your visit a fun learning experience in theis quiet country setting.
What is Flameworking?
Flamework, also known as Lampwork or Torchwork, is a type of glassblowing that uses a special torch called a bench burner to melt the glass. Unlike glass blowing where the glass is molten in a furnace, in flameworking the burner sits on the work bench as the glassblower holds the glass and manipulates it in the flame.
Our mission at wildfire studios is to foster a confidence in glass making.
Our classes offer beginner level instruction as well as more advanced and intermediate skill level guidance.
We are passionate about sharing our knowledge of the craft with the next generation of glassblowers.
Although we focus on glassblowing, we also offer a myriad of other artistic mediums to explore.
We have a high-vacuum neon/plasma manifold, kiln formed glass equipment, a blacksmithing forge on site, access to a copper electroforming bath, jewelry making, print making and paper making, and offer other media instruction through visiting artists.
To help keep costs down we offer free camping for students with 24/7 access to restroom facilities.
Schedule a Class
About Our Instructor
Miles Henry has helped many flameworkers get their start and enjoys sharing his knowledge with novices and experienced glass blowers alike, as well as teaching out of his own studio. He has been a teacher's assistant at Penland School of Crafts with Sally Prasch (lathe working), Wayne Strattman and David Wilson (plasma/neon sculpture), and James Minson (flameworking). With an always welcoming, fun and helpful attitude, Miles is always excited to meet new glassblowers and share his over 30 years of glass experience.
