Hayley Ninnis studied psychology at Delaware Community College in Media, Pennsylvania, completing her degree at Penn State University, where she later earned a master's degree in leadership development. She joined the staff of Hunt Auctions in 2018 as a customer service specialist, putting her passion for all things vintage to work in service of the auction house’s clientele. In pursuit of an additional outlet for her artistic talents, Hayley Ninnis attended glassblowing classes at East Falls Glassworks in Philadelphia.
Founded in 2006, East Falls Glassworks is the only glassblowing studio in Philadelphia that allows public access. Experienced glassblowers and novices alike can visit and observe artists in the process of creating glass artworks. It is not a production factory and there are not always people working in the studio; thus, it’s advisable to call before visiting to find out when someone will be working there.
East Falls Glassworks also offers classes in glassblowing, including six-week courses for beginners and intermediate students, as well as advanced classes for those students ready to explore the artform’s subtler, more nuanced elements. Experienced artists needing access to a hotshop can rent studio space.
As glassblowing involves working with molten glass at temperatures up to 2,000 degrees, there is an element of danger involved; visitors and students are expected to sign a waiver before working with equipment and materials. More information about East Falls Glassworks is available at EastFallsGlass.com.
