Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 2814 HTCinc.net | Summer 2016 How One Couple Creates Success, Beauty With Glass With its unique ability to inspire, enlighten and enrich an entire community, art holds undeniable value. Through art, we are able to reflect on beauty, enhance education and contribute to our total well-being. Indeed, the worth of art in a society is immeasurable; however, it is no secret that sustaining a living as an artist can be challenging. Luckily for Conway, Ed and Barbara Streeter have found a way to flourish as artists. In their quaint downtown workshop, Ed and Barbara’s eyes widen with excitement as they speak about their passion. Here, wooden tables and supplies are scattered about; church pews and bleachers warmly call in visitors; and yesterday’s unfinished project waits in the corner for more attention — this space is an artist’s dream. While they also specialize in custom residential and stained glass, their niche is called glass blowing. This skill is more than art and more than a specialty — it’s equal parts art and science, all driven by a creative process that results in entirely unique pieces every time. Essentially, the glass-blowing process begins with pure glass and an incredibly hot furnace of up to 2,100 degrees. After heating the glass, one artist blows into a long tube to fill the molten object up with air, causing it to expand into a balloon-like shape. Meanwhile, a partner artist uses utensils to manipulate the glass and mold its shape and size. Whether the end goal is a vase, ornament or statue, a steady, measured procedure paced by patience is required. “During the process, it usually takes two people to control the glass,” explains Barbara. “Once you work with someone for a while, it becomes more of an intuition. You know the exact steps it takes from start to finish.”