About
Gaffer and owner of Small Batch Glass, Asher Holman, has been blowing glass for over 10 years, and practicing in Asheville for the past 6 years.
Small Batch Glass provides the public with a unique and close-up experience of glass production, and supplies well-crafted and beautiful objects.
This small-scale, working artist's studio and gallery is located in the River Arts District of Asheville, North Carolina. Visitors can watch as the art in the showroom is made in front of their eyes and purchase directly from the local independent artist himself.
Image: Colby Rabon
My work is a celebration of the convergence between time-honored tradition and contemporary vision.
The alchemical transformation of molten glass into intricate forms is a bridge that spans generations, cultures, and artistic ideals. Through the fusion of age-old techniques and innovative design, I aim to create art that resonates with the viewer's soul, inviting them to witness the echoes of history while embracing the spirit of the modern age.
My artistic journey is a testament to the rich heritage of Venetian glass techniques, which I infuse with a contemporary spirit to craft captivating and innovative works of art that transcend time and culture. I find myself immersed in a centuries-old dialogue between tradition and innovation.
The art of glassblowing, rooted in the lagoon city of Venice, is a symphony of skill, precision, and creativity.
Drawing inspiration from the master artisans of Murano, I pay homage to their intricate craftsmanship and respect for the medium's expressive potential. The delicate dance of gathering molten glass, shaping it with centuries-old tools, and coaxing it into exquisite forms remains the backbone of my creative process.
While honoring tradition, I am committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible. I draw on the elegance of traditional Venetian techniques like murrine, reticello, and incalmo, breathing new life into them by intertwining them with contemporary sensibilities. Just as those artisans of old broke ground in their time, I strive to experiment and reimagine, crafting pieces that engage viewers in a dialogue between the past and the present.
The use of color is a pivotal element in my work, echoing the vibrant hues that have adorned Venetian glass for centuries.
I harness a diverse palette that ranges from the opulent jewel tones reminiscent of the Renaissance to the bold, contemporary gradients that captivate the eye. By carefully layering and blending colors, I imbue my creations with depth and dimension, inviting viewers to explore the intricacies of each piece from every angle.
Form, equally essential, is the language through which I narrate stories and emotions. The graceful curves, intricate patterns, and dynamic structures that define Venetian glass become a canvas for my artistic expression. Whether it's the graceful sweep of a vase, the intricate geometry of a bowl, or the asymmetrical complexity of a sculpture, every piece tells a story that transcends mere aesthetics.
