Year of Glass
2025 - Tucson's Year of Glass
2025 is officially Tucson’s Year of Glass, marking the 50th anniversary of glassblowing in Tucson and the 25th anniversary of Sonoran Glass School, Arizona’s only non-profit glass school.
After receiving his M.A. in Glassblowing, Tom Philabaum built and opened Tucson’s first glassblowing studio in 1975. Philabaum is widely recognized for bringing glass art to this part of the country and establishing Tucson as a glass hub in America. Few cities can say that they have been blowing glass for 50 years, a feat that is certainly worth celebrating. 25 years after he opened his first studio, Philabaum co-founded Sonoran Glass School, a non-profit, public-access educational organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to discover the wonder of glass art. Join Philabaum Glass Gallery & Sonoran Glass School as we celebrate 2025 Tucson Year of Glass with exciting exhibitions, demonstrations, events & more.
Upcoming Events
February 1: Philabaum Glass Gallery – Arizona’s only all glass art gallery – celebrates their grand opening at 2840 E. Skyline Drive Ste. 100. View unique glass art from over 75 artists and meet local glass artists. 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm.
February 6: First Thursday Art Walk at Philabaum Glass Gallery with the Foothills Arts District. 7 galleries within walking distance open from 4:00 – 7:00 pm, offering refreshments and opportunities to meet local artists. Tucson glass artist Erika Parkin will be featured at Philabaum Glass Gallery.
February 14: Sonoran Glass School welcomes internationally celebrated glass artist Richard Royal. For over 40 years, Royal has been recognized as one of the most skilled glassblowers in the studio glass movement, working alongside artists like Dale Chihuly and William Morris. Don’t miss Royal’s free lecture & demonstration from 5:00 – 7:00pm. Seating limited.