Water Street Glassworks ▪ Behind the Glass Community Nights
Water Street Glassworks ▪ Behind the Glass Community Nights at WSG
-Discover the process, meet the artists, and experience glass in action.
-An inside look at the art, techniques, and people shaping glass.
Friday, June 19, 2026, 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Water Street Glassworks (WSG) is excited to announce the launch of a new Visiting Artist Program, expanding its commitment to accessible arts education and community engagement. As part of this initiative, WSG will introduce Community Nights, a monthly series of live demonstrations and informal talks that bring the public into the studio for an up-close look at the art of glass.
The series will kick off with visiting artist Todd Knight of Saugatuck, Michigan. A talented flameworker, Knight will share his passion for the medium through a live demonstration and conversation exploring the magic of glass beadmaking. Originally a Detroit native and performing artist, Knight discovered glass at the Ox-Bow School of Art in 2000. What began as a single class quickly grew into a lifelong pursuit, leading him to study glassblowing and casting across Michigan—including the heart of the Benton Harbor Arts District at Water Street Glassworks.
WSG’s first Community Night with Todd Knight is generously sponsored by Visit Southwest Michigan. Todd Knight’s lecture and demo will be held at WSG on June 19th from 6-8 pm.
“Without an expressive medium, we do not allow ourselves to be. Glass is a medium that takes energies from the right and left brain. A great exercise for the artistic spirit. I love it.” -Todd Knight.
Through the Visiting Artist Program, WSG will bring accomplished artists like Knight into the studio to share their expertise, introduce new techniques, and engage directly with students and the broader community. Visiting artists—recognized leaders in the field, including past contestants from the glass competition series Blown Away—will also work alongside WSG’s Fired Up! students, offering mentorship and insight into professional artistic practice.
Community Nights will feature visiting artists in action, offering live demonstrations and informal conversations across a range of techniques, including glassblowing, flameworking, glass casting, fusing, and more. It’s a chance to see the process up close, ask questions, and connect with the people behind the work.
Expanding What’s Possible in the Studio
Since 2004, WSG has provided hands-on classes in glassblowing, beadmaking, fusing, stained glass, and mosaics. The Visiting Artist Program builds on that foundation by bringing new energy and perspective into the studio—creating opportunities for both new and returning students to learn directly from practicing artists.
In addition to working with Fired Up! students and participating in Community Nights, visiting artists will teach specialized classes, offering deeper learning experiences and introducing techniques not typically available within WSG’s regular programming.
Sponsorship Opportunities Available
WSG is currently seeking sponsors and community partners to support the Visiting Artist Program and Community Nights. These initiatives offer a unique opportunity to align with dynamic, community-driven arts programming.
Get Involved
Community Nights will be held monthly at Water Street Glassworks. To learn more, attend an event, or explore sponsorship opportunities, visit: waterstreetglassworks.org
Event Details:
Date: Friday, June 19th
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Location: Water Street Glassworks - 140 Water Street, Benton Harbor, MI 49022
