Kenny Pieper puts the finishing touches on a large bowl from his amber and red Autumn Primavera series. Next up, he will work on pieces from his Cane collection of low-profile bowls featuring the Encalmo (double bubble) technique producing a dramatic, intricate pattern you need to see to appreciate the exquisite detail.

The amazing thing about western North Carolina is finding all the incredible artisans tucked away among the hills and mountains. One of the best known is glass blower Kenny Pieper of Pieper Glass. Located near Burnsville (a short trip from Asheville), in Celo, you will generally find Kenny working in his expansive, airy studio equipped with huge ovens and massive equipment. He makes all his own colors and glass tubes prior to creating a finished piece.

An alumnus of the nearby Penland School of Crafts, he has studied art throughout the U.S. and has a degree from the California College of Arts in Oakland. His pieces are very collectible and most are sold in galleries throughout the country; when visiting his studio be sure to head upstairs for the added bonus of seeing his showroom.

While in the area be sure to stop by other artists, several glass blowers are just minutes away. Google “Glass Studios of the South Toe Valley” for more info; most are open daily 10-5.