Ethan Ball
Hi, I’m Ethan Ball, a glass artist and educator who turns molten glass into a bridge between people. My journey began at Ball State and has taken me from the wilds of Alaska to the traditions of Italy. My work blends traditional techniques with modern design, shaped by the colors and stories of the places I visit.
Glassmaking is a team sport. Success in the hot shop depends on the gaffer and assistants working in total sync to master the heat. My series, Practicing Failure Bit by Bit, embraces the beauty of the unexpected. I created these works while sailing to dozens of countries aboard cruise ships, making each piece a visual record of a specific location. It is about turning a stumble into a chance to create something one of a kind.
Beyond the furnace, I am driven by the educational side of glass. I believe the history of this medium is just as captivating as the molten glass itself. Through live demonstrations and workshops, I pull back the curtain on the process to show how ancient traditions meet modern design. Whether I am teaching a beginner or performing for a crowd, my goal is to spark that same sense of wonder I felt when I first started.
Outside the studio, I am usually searching for the perfect coffee or practicing my golf swing. Both glass and golf demand the same deep patience and focus. I love sharing the thrill of this craft through workshops and custom commissions. Your support keeps the furnace burning and the creativity flowing. Let us connect and create something meaningful together.
