Compelled by their passion for glass art, our founders began teaching fused glass classes through Green Valley Recreation (GVR) in 2012. By 2016, the popularity and demand for more classes in fused, mosaics and stained glass led to an application to GVR for club status. Starting with thirty-five members, the Glass Artists Club (GAC) adopted this Mission Statement:

“To provide opportunities, resources, and a well-managed facility for GVR members to learn and expand their glass artistry skills.”

As club membership grew, GAC’s facilities were spread over multiple, cramped GVR locations.  In February 2020, Club representatives presented GAC’s vision and space needs to the GVR Board’s Facilities Expansion Subcommittee. It was the beginning of an arduous 4-year process that included many member-supported meetings, fundraisers, letter writing and advocacy, as well as a hiatus during the Covid-19 pandemic! Through it all, GAC maintained remarkable growth, with 89 members by the end of 2020.

In early 2022, GVR staff identified underutilized space at Santa Rita Springs Center (SRS) and allocated 4200 sq ft for a new consolidated Glass Arts Studio. GAC board members worked with GVR’s architect, staff and consultants to design a functional, safe, and welcoming studio.

In December 2022, GAC had grown to 139 members. In March 2023, GAC held a “Wall Bash” party at the Santa Rita Springs site to celebrate the demolition of existing walls and the start of 10 months of construction.

On February 23rd, 2024, the Glass Artists Club, GVR Board, staff and members, and the SRS arts community celebrated the Grand Opening of our beautiful new studio. By the end of that year, membership had increased to 242.

Now, with well over 250 members, classes, workshops, open studio time and social events fill the GAC calendar, creating a happy buzz among our glass artists.

Club Presidents

Club Founders

Linda Reed and Linda Touzeau

2026 is a major milestone for the GVR Glass Artists Club, as we celebrate our 10^th anniversary throughout the year. From humble and scattered beginnings, the GAC has grown and moved into a beautiful, professional studio. The growth in our membership reflects the successful management and programs run by our club leaders and instructors. We invite you to walk down memory lane via these photos and to celebrate this milestone with us. 

Visitors are always welcome to visit the glass arts studio at the Santa Rita Springs Recreation Center. Closed-toe shoes are required to tour the studio.