Located in the heart of Lommel, Belgium, the GlazenHuis, or Glass House in English, stands as a beacon of contemporary glass art and a testament to the town's rich history with the medium. This remarkable center for modern glass art is not just a museum but also a dynamic space for exhibitions, workshops, and a glass shop, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
The story of the GlazenHuis is deeply intertwined with the history of Lommel itself. In 1845, the discovery of high-quality quartz sand in the region marked the beginning of Lommel's journey as a significant player in the glass industry. The sand, known for its exceptional purity and fine grains, was ideal for glass production. By the late 19th century, several sand quarries were established, and the local sand was transported to various glass production facilities.
Fast forward to 2007, the GlazenHuis was designed by Philippe Samyn and his partners, featuring an iconic 30-meter-high glass cone that has since become a symbol of Lommel's identity as a glass city. This striking architectural marvel not only showcases the beauty and versatility of glass but also serves as a gateway to the world of contemporary glass art.
The architecture of the GlazenHuis is a sight to behold. The glass cone, supported by a steel structure, is a standout feature, with two identical steel staircases spiraling upwards inside. Surrounding the cone is a six-meter-high glass box, and an underground level houses three exhibition spaces on different levels. The ground floor and basement exhibition spaces are directly connected to the glass studio, allowing visitors to witness the glassmaking process up close.
The design of the GlazenHuis is not just about aesthetics; it also serves a functional purpose. The glass elements and steel framework create a harmonious blend of transparency and strength, symbolizing the delicate yet resilient nature of glass itself.
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Since its opening in May 2007, the GlazenHuis has hosted numerous temporary exhibitions, each exploring different facets of glass as an artistic medium. These exhibitions feature works by renowned national and international artists, as well as emerging talents, offering a diverse and ever-evolving showcase of contemporary glass art.
The GlazenHuis also boasts an impressive collection of over 800 glass artworks, including pieces from both private and public collections. The city's own glass art collection is a highlight, providing visitors with a glimpse into the rich heritage and innovative spirit of glass art in Lommel.
One of the unique aspects of the GlazenHuis is its glass studio, where the magic of glassmaking comes to life. The studio is divided into two sections: the hot glass area and the cold glass area. The hot glass area is equipped with melting furnaces, reheating furnaces, annealing ovens, fusing kilns, glassblowing benches, and blowpipes. In contrast, the cold glass area features flat grinding machines, hand grinding machines, diamond saws, diamond drilling machines, belt sanders, vertical grinding wheels, sandblasting cabins, and engraving cabins.
Visitors can observe the skilled artisans at work, transforming molten glass into stunning works of art. This immersive experience provides a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and creativity involved in glassmaking.
Education is a cornerstone of the GlazenHuis's mission. The center offers a variety of workshops and courses designed to introduce participants to the art of glassmaking. These educational programs cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Workshops such as glass casting for beginners and glass jewelry making with Suzanne Venema are just a few examples of the hands-on learning opportunities available.
In collaboration with SYNTRA Hasselt and the North Limburg Institute for Art Education, the GlazenHuis ensures that its educational offerings are comprehensive and accessible to all.
Adjacent to the GlazenHuis is the glass shop, housed in the historic Huis Aerts. This heritage building, established in 1805 by Lommel's first mayor, Joannes Aerts, has served various purposes over the years, including as a lodging house and tavern. Today, it is an integral part of the GlazenHuis, blending historical charm with contemporary glass art.
The glass shop offers a wide range of glass objects and artworks for sale, including custom-made pieces. It also features a specialized library where visitors can browse books and catalogs related to glass art, courtesy of the Lommel library.
In conclusion, the GlazenHuis in Lommel is more than just a museum; it is a vibrant hub of creativity, education, and cultural heritage. Whether you're an art aficionado, a curious tourist, or someone looking to try their hand at glassmaking, the GlazenHuis offers a unique and enriching experience that celebrates the beauty and versatility of glass in all its forms.
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