After exploring glass-blowing in college, Wyatt Maxwell figured his hometown, Nashville, was ready for an art glass studio where guests could observe and participate in the craft, make their own projects and buy work from world-class glass artisans. He floated the idea to his parents, Juliana and Joe Maxwell, who recognized the opportunity to bring something polished and beautiful to a Fairgrounds-area thoroughfare in transition.

The entrepreneurial Maxwells knew they needed an expert in glass art to start things off right — someone like Paul Nelson. The veteran glass artist had been working in Louisville for 22 years, establishing Glassworks and Flame Run Studios and teaching at universities and residencies. Student Wyatt met instructor Paul in a residency at Centre College in Danville, Ky. But they had another connection: Both Paul and Wyatt studied with art teacher David Tucker at Franklin Road Academy — Paul at the beginning of David’s career and Wyatt near the end. Their shared educational experience led to a creative partnership.

In late 2023, the Maxwells and Paul, with help from other glass artists, debuted Glasshaüs, a campus of creative entrepreneurship that combines an art gallery, a hot shop with glass-blowing classes and demonstrations, event space for rent, and a coffee shop.

Click here to read the full article.