Water Street Glassworks youth program brings fire, creativity, and craftsmanship to the Bluff July 12–13
Visitors to this year’s Krasl Art Fair on the Bluff will have a chance to witness young glass artists in action, shaping molten glass into stunning works with fire and finesse.
The FIRED UP! teen program from Water Street Glassworks will once again have its own booth at the big, annual art event July 12–13 in downtown St. Joseph. The program, which gives local teens hands-on experience in the “fire arts,” is a standout youth initiative that has been inspiring students since 2004.
These young artists have spent the past year learning glassblowing, beadmaking, and other hot glass techniques in the Water Street Glassworks studio in the Benton Harbor Arts District. For them, the Krasl Art Fair is more than a sales opportunity—it’s the culmination of their hard work and growth, and a chance to engage with the broader community.
Each student will display and sell original pieces of glass art they’ve created, keeping 70% of proceeds from their individual sales, while 30% goes toward material costs. In addition, the group works together to produce a collaborative “production item,” with 100% of those proceeds going right back into the program. Their goal? Help fund another student’s future in the FIRED UP! program.
“We’re incredibly proud of the responsibility and pride these students show—not just in their art, but in their commitment to supporting the next wave of teen artists,” said a spokesperson for Water Street Glassworks. “They see themselves not only as creators, but as mentors-in-the-making.”
Beyond the booth, visitors will also be treated to live demonstrations of flameworking, the intricate process of creating glass beads over a torch. These up-close sessions show off the skill, patience, and precision that go into every piece. Fairgoers can ask questions, meet the artists, and even purchase one-of-a-kind glass jewelry and beads.
FIRED UP! also serves as a professional development program, teaching teens marketing, communication, and presentation skills as they interact with thousands of visitors. The Krasl Art Fair—ranked among the top 30 art fairs in the nation—provides a professional platform that few high school students ever get to experience.
The cost to sponsor one student for a full year is $1,800, which covers instruction, materials, transportation, snacks, and field trips. Individuals or businesses interested in supporting the program can connect with Water Street Glassworks at the fair or through their website.
So if you’re heading to the Art Fair, stop by the FIRED UP! booth. You’ll not only see beautiful glasswork—you’ll meet the next generation of local artists, entrepreneurs, and community leaders… ready to shine.
For more about FIRED UP! or to learn how to sponsor a student, visit www.waterstreetglassworks.org.
