by Pat Kerns

In September we welcome Astral Glass as our guest artists at Hannibal's Alliance Art Gallery. Many people in the area will remember their shop in Clarksville, Mo. that they opened in 2003 with stained glass after moving from their shop in California established in the 1970's. As the market for stained glass decreased they transitioned to glass fusing and slumping. After awhile owners Judy and Gary Rice bought equipment and Gary taught himself to blow glass.
After the flood in 2008 they opened a second shop in New Haven but continued the one in Clarksville at the same time. Eventually they moved totally to New Haven where they continue today.

About 20 years ago they were joined by Lance Stroheker who had 2 years of glass blowing experience gained at SIU Edwardsville and apprenticed with Gary for 5 years. He remains there and has been joined by the Rice's granddaughter Katelynn Escobar after she completed her degree in Art Education at Missouri State University in Springfield MO.

Plans are in the works for Katelynn and Lance to take over the business soon when Judy and Gary retire.
They are bring a variety of glass blown objects along with handmade jewelry.

An opening reception will be held on Saturday, September 9, 2023 from 4:00 until 7:00 pm. This event is free and open to the public.