©2019 Saratoga Photographer.com
By Jennifer Farnsworth
Making a career out of doing what you love may seem like a dream for many, but for Gregory Tomb it is a reality.
The Burnt Hills native has found his niche in the world of glassblowing and those traveling through the Spa City this summer can have the opportunity to see what his passion is all about.
Tomb said he reached out to The Gideon Putnam about their artist-in-residence program, and not knowing what to expect in response, was thrilled when they were interested.
As the artist-in-residence, Tomb can be found at The Gideon Putnam in Saratoga Spa State Park until Labor Day, where is he offering glass blowing art classes. His makeshift studio is offering two-hour classes in the morning, one two-hour class in the evening, and custom private class events.
Tomb said Saratoga is the perfect place for an artist to show his craft.
“I am honored that the Gideon Putnam responded to my interest in being the artist on site for the summer. The response has been absolutely wonderful, the people have been great. They are so interested in the process and they love the end product,” said Tomb.
Tomb said his interest in glassblowing began when his family would visit the Glass Museum in Corning on their frequent road trips. He said he remembers so many details of those visits and the instant connection he felt to the art. He later attended Hartwick College where he studied glassblowing and worked as a production team leader for Simon Pearce Glass.
He said throughout this time he was always the adventurous type, but found himself repeatedly drawn to glassblowing.
“I love outdoor adventures like skiing, rafting, but I always came back to glass,” said Tomb.
Tomb said those who have participated in the classes love choosing colors, shapes and different projects. The hands-on experience shows his customers how to shape and mold their own unique piece of art. Classes include the Hathorn Package,with the option of making a flower, heart, paperweight or small pumpkin. The Polaris Package offers the chance to make a vase, large pumpkin or a bowl. All projects need a day or so to cool, so free shipping is included.
Tomb is working on a fundraiser event to be held on Sept. 15. He said the featured project will be a glass pumpkin and he is currently working out the details as to who the recipient will be.
More information on booking classes, times, and prices can be found at gregorytglass.com, or on facebook @gregorytglass.