Sculpting Community Through Glass: Inside the Benzaiten Center with JB Berkow & Grace Chepneik

On the latest episode of the ArtiGras Podcast, host Sarah LaPierre delves into the vibrant world of glass art with JB Berkow and Grace Chepneik from the Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts. Their conversation explores the transformative power of glass, the center's role in fostering community, and the dynamic interplay between tradition and innovation in contemporary art.​

🔥 Forging Connections Through Fire

JB Berkow, founder of the Benzaiten Center, shares her journey from painter to glass art advocate. Inspired by the fluidity and immediacy of molten glass, she established the center to provide artists with a space to explore this medium's possibilities. Grace Chepneik, a resident artist, discusses how the center's collaborative environment has shaped her artistic growth and deepened her appreciation for the communal aspects of glassblowing.​

“Glass has a way of bringing people together,” JB notes. “It's a dance of heat, timing, and trust.”​

🏛️ Benzaiten Center: A Hub of Creativity

Located in Lake Worth, Florida, the Benzaiten Center serves as a nexus for artists and enthusiasts alike. With facilities for glassblowing, metalworking, and more, it offers workshops, residencies, and exhibitions that celebrate both emerging and established talents. JB and Grace highlight the center's commitment to education and its role in demystifying the art-making process for the public.​

“We want to make art accessible,” Grace emphasizes. “When people see the process, they connect more deeply with the pieces.”​

🌟 Art as Experience

The episode underscores the experiential nature of glass art. Sarah, JB, and Grace discuss how witnessing the transformation of raw materials into delicate forms can be both mesmerizing and enlightening. They reflect on memorable moments when visitors, captivated by live demonstrations, gain a newfound respect for the craft.​

 “There's magic in the making,” Sarah observes. “It's not just about the final piece, but the journey it takes to get there.”​

🎨 Looking Ahead

As the Benzaiten Center continues to evolve, JB and Grace share their aspirations for expanding its reach and impact. Plans include introducing new programs, enhancing community engagement, and fostering partnerships that bridge diverse artistic disciplines.​

 “Our goal is to keep the flame of creativity burning bright,” JB concludes. “By nurturing artists and inviting the community in, we ensure that art remains a vital part of our cultural fabric.”​

🔗 Connect with the Benzaiten Center

Discover more about the Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts, explore upcoming events, and learn how you can participate by visiting their official website or following them on Instagram.​

🎧 Listen to the Full Episode

Experience the full conversation on Spotify: Sculpting Community Through Glass: Inside the Benzaiten Center with JB Berkow & Grace Chepneik​

 Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from the art world on the ArtiGras Podcast!