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Fire Arts Vermont is a working glassblowing and ceramics studio, fine art gallery, and creative destination located on Route 30 in Brattleboro — about 20 minutes from Otherland Hotel. It is the collaborative home of Randi Solin, an award-winning master glassblower whose work is held in the permanent collections of the White House and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Natalie Blake, a master ceramicist known for large-scale architectural tile installations. Both studios are open to visitors Thursday through Monday, 10am to 5pm, and live glassblowing typically takes place on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays — call ahead to confirm the schedule.

For those who want to go beyond watching, Fire Arts Vermont offers hands-on workshops in both glassblowing and ceramics. The Introduction to Glassblowing class ($220, 3 hours) guides guests through the full process of shaping, colouring, and cooling molten glass — you leave with a finished vessel and a paperweight. For something shorter, the Make Your Own Leaf workshop ($65, 30 minutes) is a wonderful option for couples or families from age 5 up. Ceramic mug-making workshops are also available ($85, 3 hours). Private classes and events can be arranged directly with the studio — a glassblowing session makes for one of the most memorable date nights in the region.

The gallery features artwork from over 40 regional and national artists, including glass sculpture, ceramics, and jewellery — well worth browsing even on a quick visit. On-site, the West River Café serves coffee, pastries, and light bites, and the Saxtons River Distillery tasting room is located in the same building. Parking is free. To book a class or plan your visit, head to fireartsvt.com or call 802-257-2787.

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