About Us

The Glass Artists Association NRW was founded on April 30, 1998, in Düsseldorf. Seven artists came together to network artists working with glass and to strengthen the public perception of contemporary glass art.

From the very beginning, the idea of networking was central. The founders wanted to bring together artists working with glass, enable collaborative artistic activities, and foster dialogue with the public. These goals continue to shape the work of the Glass Artists Association to this day.

In the early years, the GKV developed into an active network for glass artists in North Rhine-Westphalia. Joint exhibitions, workshops, excursions, and personal encounters created space for exchange, inspiration, and new artistic impulses. At the same time, close connections were established with museums, cultural institutions, and the glass industry. Regular presence at glasstec in Düsseldorf helped make the diversity of contemporary glass art accessible to a broad audience.

Over the years, the association grew beyond its original structures. National and international contacts broadened perspectives on different artistic positions and working methods. Members benefited from joint projects, study trips, and professional exchange, which continue to enrich the association’s life today.

The GKV remained active even during times of social change. During the COVID-19 pandemic, digital formats were expanded and new methods of outreach were tested. After returning to in-person encounters, the association built on these experiences and continued to develop its activities.

An important development in recent years has been the association’s expansion beyond NRW. While the GKV was originally founded as a network for glass artists from North Rhine-Westphalia, today artists from other federal states also belong to the association. The original idea remains unchanged: exchange among members, promotion of contemporary glass art, and strengthening its public perception.

Today, the GKV unites different generations, techniques, and artistic positions. Together, its members are committed to making the diverse expressive possibilities of glass as a material visible and to advancing glass art as a vibrant part of contemporary art.

The history of the Glass Artists Association NRW is being written anew by its members every day. Those who wish to trace the association’s development through its projects and artistic positions will find an overview of current and past presentations under “Exhibitions.”