Special exhibition at Artworks through April 27

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Kokomo Opalescent Glass (KOG) holds a unique place in the city’s history. The manufacturer has been casting beautiful works of art since 1888, making it the oldest manufacturer of hand-cast, cathedral, and opalescent glass in the nation.

And yet it is rare to see works by the KOG artists on display outside of its home at 1310 S. Market St.

That work is no longer hidden away. The Kokomo Art Association and KOG have come together to present a special exhibition of art glass from the KOG experts, which will remain on display until April 27.

Ally Connor, KOG retail manager, was excited to work with the association and Misha Jefferson of Fired Arts Studio on the exhibition.

 “Misha reached out and wanted to work with us,” said Connor. “She wanted me to curate some things, and that's really how it got started. Two weeks later, we have an exhibit. All of the artists have been or are employed currently by Kokomo Opalescent Glass.”

Thousands of people from the local community and from around the world visit and tour the glassworks every year. KOG’s work has been used by Tiffany and Co. and other stained glass works manufacturers and continues to provide glass for Tiffany item restorations.

Kokomo Opalescent Glass can be found in The Vatican, the White House, Walt Disney World, and as many as 75 percent of the world’s churches. It is a vital part of much of the stained glass art that exists. But it’s more than a stained glass window in a church, as the exhibition demonstrates.

“Of course, we know we mean a lot to the community,” said Connor. “This is not just showing KOG as a manufacturer. I wanted to show our glass as an art medium and how it can be used in different different facets.”

The KOG art glass exhibit will remain on display through April 27 at the Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St., with a reception for the artists on April 19 at 6:30 p.m. The exhibition and reception are free and open to the community, but attendees are asked to RSVP for the reception.

Artworks Gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from noon until 4 p.m. KOG’s Op Shop is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Tours take place Monday through Friday at 11 a.m. The cost is $6 for adults and $3 for students, and the tour must be scheduled in advance by calling 765-457-1829.