Bless, Joel

Biography

Joel Bless lifelong passion for glassblowing began in his college days at the Rochester Institute of Technology. It was the early 1970’s and the school had just opened its School of American Craftsmen’s glassblowing program. Following these initial introductions, Joel went on to teach himself the craft and by the late 1970’s had built his own hot shop. It was at this time that he and his wife, Candace Luke-Bless established what would become Glasslight. Since then, Joel has refined and honed his work constantly innovating techniques and designing new pieces. His products have ranged from small table lamps to Judaica to his newest endeavor, large-scale chandeliers. Over the years, Joel has also discovered his love of teaching and now engages the community by offering glassblowing classes. Always excited to meet new people and answer questions about his work, Joel is a true artisan and spokesman for the craft.