Experience the magic and drama of glassblowing on Mornington Peninsula

As you go about your day-to-day life using bottles, vases, glasses and more, you probably don't spend much time thinking how these delicate pieces are made. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that the process of creating these beautiful works can be very, very dramatic. 

Here's the background on this exhilarating craft, along with an opportunity to check it out for yourself while staying on Mornington Peninsula.

Glassblowing: A thrilling art 

While not every pitcher or glass orb is made by glassblowing, this art generates a significant proportion of the glass products we use, especially those of finer quality.

Craftsman trained in this trade develop a sense for getting just the right temperatures, angles and timing, and yet even they can have their project end in shatters after putting in a significant amount of work. For them, it's a part of the profession. For viewers, it adds an element of excitement and suspense to watching an already fascinating unfolding, as master artists transform globs of molten glass into amazing shapes that change again and again to become true masterpieces.   

Sound interesting? If you're planning a holiday in Victoria, you're in luck: Mornington Peninsula has a renowned glass studio that you can visit to peruse the finished glass pieces on display while also enjoying a demonstration you won't likely forget any time soon.  

Gordon Studio on Mornington Peninsula

Located in Red Hill, Gordon Studio Glassblowers offers both a gallery and a studio where the master glassblowers create remarkable glass pieces using traditional methods and styles. 

In the gallery, you'll find gorgeous engraved glass art, cameo work and innovative designs too beautiful and impressive to imagine their humble sand beginnings. With pieces from world-famous artists, such as Dale Chilhuly, you'll see the best of the best while marvelling at the extremely broad range of styles this craft comprises. 

For a real treat, head to the studios while the masters are at work. From the safety of the viewing mezzanine, you'll have a perfect view of the blowing room while experiencing just how very hot the furnaces are. Watch the full metamorphosis of a bubble of molten glass into a unique piece, observing the fine touches and careful motions the glassblowers employ to guide the material into the design they envisioned. 

Check out this video for a sneak peak: 

If you're the hands-on type, you can even take a class at the studio and learn how to make pieces such as paperweights, tumblers and beads. Just check the schedule before booking your accommodations on Mornington Peninsula so you can plan accordingly. You'll never look at a glass the same way again!

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