Buzz
I started the AlderHouse some 50 years ago after graduating from Portland State U. with a degree in painting and drawing.While at PSU, I took a one week workshop in glass-blowing and was fascinated by it. The painting and drawing degree was put aside for the fascinating world of blown-glass.The workshop that I had taken had hooked me and for the better part of my adult life has kept me happy and looking forward to the workday. I felt that it was time to lay down my blowpipe and just putz with some of the office details of the studio.
Anne
Some years later Anne joined me and has been blowing glass for the past 30 years or so. A native of western Nebraska, she moved to Oregon to take a teaching position at Oregon State U.. We met at the studio and were married a couple of years later. She quit her position at the university and is now working at the Alder House. She has developed a style of her own adding a feminine touch to the inventory. Due to health issues she is now just taking care of them and not working at the studio. Sadly Anne passed away last January. We all miss her so much.
Kyle
Old friend Kyle Gribskov joined the AlderHouse in 2009. This is his second time at the studio as he blew his first piece here in the early 80’s. After studios in the Portland area, he has set up in Skamawaka, Wa. where he continues his skillful and creative way with glass for part of the year. He brings a new look to the inventory at the Alder House as well as an informative narrative for our visitors.
Treasure
Treasure Collupy also commutes from Skamakawa to flesh out our staff. He was born and reared in that small community and after a brief stay in Seattle returned home where he was asked to help at Kyle’s studio. This changed the direction of his life and he has been working with glass since.He brings his youthful enthusiasm and tireless work ethic to the studio. He is a visitor favorite with his easy-going demeanor and friendly style.
Ian
Our son Ian joins us at the studio in the summer and is getting quite adept at the craft. He is looking forward to learning a bit more glassblowing this year although he is becoming quite the journeyman. He now spends several hours each week during the summer and has gone well beyond just doing raindrops. His vases, bowls, cups, lights, and cups have found an audience and have gone home with many of our clients. This year he has also expanded into woodworking. Throughout the shop there are display boards, cutting boards, clocks, and more to come soon. He is willing to do custom work, as are the other artists, with both glass and woodworking. Stop by and grab one of his pieces that will last you a lifetime!
