Toledo, p. 34

TOLEDO

From shopping to art to special events, celebrate the International Year of Glass in this northwest Ohio city known for glass innovation. By Kristina Smith

Artwork by Shahid Khan on display at a previous Momentum Festival

Machines working at a Libbey Glass factory; The Toledo company makes a variety of glassware (inset). From works of art to mobile phones to vials used in developing vaccines, glass touches nearly every part of life. To celebrate the contributions of this material and the people who innovate with it, the United Nations has declared 2022 the International Year of Glass.

Arguably, no place knows the material better than Toledo, the Glass City. It is where businesses made groundbreaking advances in glass manufacturing and technology, and artists launched the studio glass art movement. In 2022, the city of Toledo has planned a year of celebration surrounding its continued role as a leader in glass.

“Glass improves daily life,” says Kyle Sword, manager of business development at the NSG Group, a glass-manufacturing company in Toledo. “I think that people take for granted that they use our products hundreds of times a day. This is a great opportunity to make people aware of who we are and what we do and bring some positive light to our industry.”

Toledo’s glass dominance started with Libbey Glass, which moved from Massachusetts to Toledo in 1888 because of the area’s abundance of natural gas and high-quality sand as well as its access to lake and railroad shipping outlets.

Today, Libbey and other companies in the region make glass for the restaurant, auto, and technology industries as well as others. The Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion and several glass studios continue the city’s proud tradition of creativity in the glass art world.

“You’ve got this rich, rich history in all these glass businesses, and you’ve got this rich cultural history that continues to develop,” says Marc Folk, president and chief executive officer of the Toledo Arts Commission. “We’re perfectly positioned to lift up Ohio on an international stage this year.”

Explore

The Toledo Museum of Art is where the studio glass art movement began. In 1962, local artists were exploring glass as an artistic medium and began offering workshops at the museum with the director’s support, says Diane Wright, the museum’s senior curator of glass and contemporary craft.

“That series of workshops is considered one of the watershed moments for that movement,” she says. “More than 50 years later, there are hundreds and hundreds of academic programs across the world. Toledo definitely has a very key role in that because of those 1962 workshops.”

The museum and its Glass Pavilion are a blend of Toledo’s glass artistry and industry. Libbey Glass, whose owners brought the company to the city of Toledo in 1888, helped to start the museum, and the company continues to help fund the institution today to keep admission free for visitors, Wright says.

“You can be immersed, whether it’s watching a demonstration, seeing the collection and being in the pavilion that is also glass and made here by [Toledo glass company] Pilkington,” Wright says.

The Toledo Museum of Art’s glass collection spans about 8,000 artifacts and is one of three major glass collections in the United States, she says. The works range from ancient to contemporary times.

The Glass Pavilion’s Glass Study Room is Toledo Museum of Art glass studio manager Alan Iwamura’s favorite exhibit in the pavilion. The room showcases works of glass — both functional and sculptural pieces — from countries around the world.

“You really get to see the origins of the material from a making perspective all the way through what has become more fine art,” says Iwamura, who is also one of the museum’s resident artists.

Other popular pieces on display within the pavilion include a life-size glass dress, Tiffany windows and a large

An artist and Toledo Museum of Art glass studio manager Alan Iwamura (standing); pieces on display in the Glass Pavilion

glass sculpture by American artist Dale Chihuly.

What really sets the Glass Pavilion and museum apart is its on-site glass studio, which is where Iwamura and other resident artists create their work. Visitors to the Glass Pavilion can see them practicing their craft, which adds to the experience.

“I personally find working among all these artworks in this building to be inspiring every day,” Iwamura says. “A lot of times, artists will reference their favorite works from the collection while they’re working and how that might have influenced decisions they might have made during their process.”

Shop

Toledo and the surrounding area have plenty of places where you can bring home a piece of the region’s famous artistry, whether functional or decorative.

Several studios, including Gathered Glass and the Toledo Museum of Art’s Glass Pavilion in Toledo and Firenation and Copper Moon, both in the Toledo suburb of Holland, also offer hands-on glass classes where visitors make their own piece of art.

Gathered Glass’ gallery offers handmade sets of martini and scotch glasses, decorative wall plates, unique wine decanters and more, says co-owner Adam Goldberg. It also takes custom orders.

“A lot of times people will come in and say, ‘I really like that pitcher, but I really want it in purple,’” he says. “I kind of describe us as a limited-production factory that functions as a custom shop.”

At the studio’s workshops, customers can learn to make creations, such as a flower or a stemless wine glass. Classes sell out quickly and give people an appreciation for the artistry of the glass field, Goldberg says.

Firenation, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2022, also offers hand-blown and sculpted glass and custom creations, as well as glass classes.

Owner and artist Matt Paskiet’s series of spiderweb, confetti and seascapes in paperweights, vessels and sculptures are very popular. The studio also does custom orders and memorials.

“We still have a human touch,” he says. “I think that’s what is part of the key to our success. In this fast-paced world, it slows down a little when you walk in.”

Copper Moon has classes for ages 4 and older, and participants use glass chips to make creations with a mosaic look. The Toledo Museum of Art also offers glass classes and sells a variety of art created by glass artists in its on-site gift shop.

For those looking for drinkware and bakeware, the Libbey Glass Factory Outlet in downtown Toledo offers glass made by the renowned company that is a staple of the hospitality industry. (When you eat at a restaurant, there’s a good chance you’re drinking from a Libbey glass.) The

Glass pieces hang from the ceiling at Gathered Glass (above); glass artwork by Firenation owner and artist Matt Paskiet (left)

outlet offers everything from fine wine and water glasses to cocktail shaker sets to specialty drink sets to cake stands.

“You see folks in there really just exploring a bit,” says Jim Burmeister, the company’s senior vice president and chief operating officer. “It’s more than getting a basic cylinder for water. It’s more about choosing what kind of fun thing do I want to have for my friends and I.”

Celebrate

The city of Toledo as well as organizations and glass businesses around the region are working together to plan celebrations throughout 2022 that bring awareness to the city’s history with glass and create inspiring art, events and festivals.

The 16th annual North American Sea Glass Festival will offer sessions on Great Lakes history and the art of beach glass May 21 and 22 at Maumee Bay Lodge & Conference Center in Oregon, just east of Toledo.

The annual Momentum Festival, Sept. 15 through 17 in downtown Toledo, will include a glass art competition, a series of concerts and a celebration of public art with new or temporary public art displays at Promenade Park and surrounding areas, Folk says.

The Toledo Arts Commission is working with Toledo Metroparks on a new public art installation at the Glass City Metropark, which will be unveiled later this year. The organizations also are working on a Glass City Art Walk, which will use Toledo’s waterfront to create a 6-mile urban trail system that includes public art, Folk says.

The NSG Group, Libbey and other Toledo glass companies are planning events such as open houses, public tours and a lecture series. Many of the International Year of Glass plans will be announced later this spring or summer. The Toledo Museum of Art has a variety of programs and classes planned, including exhibits and programs with guest artists.

“What’s so special about Toledo that’s embodied in the International Year of Glass is this really intentional and willful spirit of collaboration,” Folk says. “That is one of the places where our future innovations are going to come from.”

Sea glass on display at the North American Sea Glass Festival (above); Visitors discuss a work of glass art at Momentum Festival.

shatter your expectations EXPLORE THE GLASS CITY

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE GREAT LAKES

VisitToledo.org

Celebrate Toledo’s glass heritage at these happenings and others to be announced soon.

16th annual North American Sea Glass Festival

May 21–22

Maumee Bay Lodge & Conference Center 1750 State Park Rd. #2, Oregon 43616 seaglassassociation.org/festival

Momentum Festival

Sept. 15–17

Downtown Toledo theartscommission.org

Toledo Museum of Art Dates to be announced

2445 Monroe St., Toledo 43620 419/255-8000, toledomuseum.org

Glass City Shopping

From kitchen ware to art pieces, pick up something special at these Toledo spots.

Gathered Glass

23 N. Huron St., Toledo 43604 419/262-5501, gatheredglasstoledo.com

Firenation

7166 Front St., Holland 43528 419/866-6288, firenation.com

Copper Moon Studio

8007 Airport Hwy., Holland 43528 419/867-0683, coppermstudio.com

Libbey Glass Factory Outlet

205 S. Erie St., Toledo 43602 419/254-5000, libbey.com

Toledo Museum of Art Store

2445 Monroe St., Toledo 43620 419/255-8000, toledomuseum.org

Mural by JUURI

WEST VIRGINIA

Head to the Mountain State this spring for outdoor adventure. These locations offer great places to hike, bike and climb, no matter what your skill level. By Macy Kile

LONG WEEKENDS

COURTESY OF ACE ADVENTURE RESORT

Ace Adventure Resort leads climbers on excursions at New River Gorge.

HIKING

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Harpers Ferry is a popular destination for history buffs and hikers alike. The park has 22 miles of trails that satisfy all skill levels and stretch beyond West Virginia to touch parts of Virginia and Maryland.

The Maryland Heights Trail offers the option of a 4.5-mile or 6.5-mile hike. (The 4.5-mile round trip offers the quickest route to the Maryland Heights Overlook, but you can add another 2 miles with the Stone Fort Loop Trail.) The trail is moderate to strenuous (based on the route you choose) and overlooks the town of Harpers Ferry, offering spectacular views of the quaint rural landscape as well as the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers, which meet alongside the Blue Ridge Mountains.

History is ingrained in the Harpers Ferry area. The Murphy-Chambers Farm Trail (1 to 3 miles round trip based on the route you take) travels through sprawling fields and shaded ravines, passing by Civil War cannons and earthworks from the Battle of Harpers Ferry.

“Harpers Ferry isn’t just any one thing,” says Leah Taber, public affairs specialist for Harpers Ferry National Park. “We are a place that saw a range of historical events and we are located where a lot of geological features come together, which makes this area especially unique.” 171 Shoreline Dr., Harpers Ferry, West Virginia 25425, 304/535-6029, nps.gov/hafe

Coopers Rock State Forest

Coopers Rock State Forest, located about 12 miles from Morgantown, offers a great day-hiking destination for adventurers of all ages and skills levels. With more than 20 hiking trails that cover a total of more than 50 miles, the Coopers Rock and Ravens Rock areas of the state offer a natural getaway not far from

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park draws history buffs, but the area’s natural features and trails make for great hiking, too.

West Virginia University. The Overlook Trail is by far the easiest trek. A few hundred feet in, hikers find the iconic Coopers Rock Overlook that offers an incredible view of the rolling hills of Cheat Canyon and the shimmering Cheat River below. Those who wish to spend a little more time in the forest should seek out the Rhododendron Trail. About a mile long, it offers a quiet escape from the busyness of Coopers Rock State Forest’s famous overlook

“It’s a little off the beaten path,” says Coopers Rock State Forest office manager Jonas M. McClenahan. “You won’t see as many people, and it takes you through some really cool rhododendron spots. Especially in early July to mid-July since that is when the rhododendron is in full bloom.” 61 County Line Dr., Bruceton Mills, West Virginia 26525, 304/594-1561, wvstateparks.com

BIKING

Wheeling Heritage Trail

The city of Wheeling has made a point of converting old railroad beds for modern recreational use. Formally a route traveled by the B&O Railroad, Wheeling’s Heritage Trail spans 16.5 miles and is paved for easier riding.

Much of the trail features views of the city while also offering access to the Ohio River. Many of the views show reminders of the industrial boom that shaped the city and provide a historical background for the leisurely ride. Along the way, signs point out key moments in Wheeling’s history. Although the trail is a favorite of travelers, it’s also widely used by locals looking for an easy getaway into nature from the city.

“Plenty of people use the rail trail. It’s a big asset to the community,” says Andrew Hollis, owner of Wheelcraft Bicycles in Wheeling. “It’s all asphalt, which is pretty unique. You can rollerblade, walk or bike on it.” To learn more about the Wheeling Heritage Trail, visit wheelingwv.gov.

Highland Scenic Highway

Located in Pocahontas County, the Highland Scenic Highway runs 43 miles through Monongahela National Forest and serves as a gateway to biking adventure. The route offers amazing views of West Virginia’s incredible natural scenery.

Mountain bikers head to this area of West Virginia to ride the popular Gauley Mountain Trail. Just more than 5 miles round trip, this epic ride has great downhill and

Coopers Rock Overlook offers an incredible view (left). The Wheeling Heritage Trail mixes nature with history (above).

climb experiences. Views through the valley look down over Tea Creek and the Williams River, and the trail benefits from the welcome shade of spruce trees. For beginners, biking the Cranberry Backcountry is a nice and gentle ride with a variety of branching trails.

“The Highland Scenic Highway is the gateway to so many of our trails and as you climb in elevation, the forest changes as well,” says Matthew Edwards, South Zone recreation manager for Monongahela National Forest. “Spruce forests are beginning to retreat so this area is really unique.” For more information about the Highland Scenic Highway and biking experiences in Monongahela National Forest, visit fs.usda.gov/mnf.

Allegheny Highlands Trail

The Allegheny Highlands Trail runs 31 miles with a trailhead in Elkin that follows the original route of the West Virginia Central and Pittsburgh Railway. A portion of the trail slightly ascends for 15 miles as bikers pass through the Pheasant and Polecat Knob mountains.

Along the way there are plenty of opportunities for bikers to snap photos of mountain scenery, rural landscapes and charming small towns, where you can stop off and learn a little about the history of the Mountain State.

Wildlife is frequently spotted along the Allegheny Highlands Trail and the Cheat and Black Fork rivers can be seen at times depending where one is along the route. The ride is also accessible to riders of different skill levels, according to Joey Riddle, owner of Joey’s Bike Shop in Elkins.

“I take the trail almost every day. It’s an easy ride,” he says. “There’s a ton of wildlife you can see — a lot of deer, squirrels, chipmunks.” To learn more about the Allegheny Highlands Trail, visit wvrailtrails.org. For more information about Joey’s Bike Shop, visit joeysbikeshop.com.

Monongahela National Forest offers a gateway to biking adventure (above). The Allegheny Highlands Trail runs 31 miles (below).

CLIMBING

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

America’s newest national park is one of West Virginia’s greatest treasures. Located near Fayetteville, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve was granted national park status in 2021. The area is home to hiking, biking, white water rafting, Bridge Day (an annual festival that allows the daring to BASE jump and rappel from the New River Gorge Bridge) and, of course, rock climbing.

A multitude of local outfitters run climbing trips throughout the area for those who are new to the sport. Bridge Buttress is an easily accessible, high-usage area that is perfect for novice climbers, according to Eray Haynie, manager of adventure operations at ACE Adventure Resort in Oak Hill, West Virginia.

“‘Easily Flakey’ is one of the best climbs at Bridge Buttress,” he says. “It has some of the best bridge views. You get a view of the entire gorge and it’s great during sunset hours. People often underestimate the size and height of the bridge, so it’s an impressive experience.” To learn more about New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, visit nps.gov/neri. For more information about ACE Adventure Resort, visit aceraft.com.

Seneca Rocks

This famous feature of West Virginia is also one of the best places to climb if you’re a beginner, according to Tom Cecil, owner of Seneca Rocks Mountain Guides and a climber for nearly five decades.

“It’s the perfect place for beginners because there’s a lot of easy to moderate climbing areas,” he says. “It’s that classic climbing experience where you get to climb to the top of something. You get to climb the summit. You are so high up it provides dramatic and thrilling views while being very doable.”

He says a good experience for novice climbers is tackling the south peak of Seneca Rocks. It consists of a short hike and then climbing up a vertical rock face. Once at the top, climbers may carefully sit on the rock (tethered) and bask in the panoramic views of the soaring Allegheny Mountains.

If hiking is more your speed, take the 1.5-mile trail to the north peak of Seneca Rocks — an experience that gives you a taste of the exhilaration without the technical climbing. Seneca Rocks is located within Monongahela National Forest. To learn more, visit fs.usda.gov/mnf. For more information about Seneca Rocks Mountain Guides, visit senecarocks.com.

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