Glassblowing has long been considered an elite art and this art form is rarely offered to youth. In the Hilltop and Northend neighborhoods of Tacoma, however, the Hilltop Artists in Residence hot shops have captured the attention and imagination of middle and high school students. Created in 1994 in partnership with Tacoma Public Schools, Hilltop Artists provides a daily program of arts instruction, academics, tutoring, and mentoring. Master glass artist Dale Chihuly frequently works with Hilltop students to teach the skills of this breathtakingly beautiful art form. Glass blowing and glass arts in combination with academic support build on the creative and social strengths of youth.
Students become contributing citizens, recognized as assets to their community.
All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Artist Biography John Cook was born in Hollywood, California in 1947. He studied with internationally known glass artist John Burton for two years, after which Cook received a scholarship to Brooks Institute of Fine Art. He graduated with honors in 1972, receiving his B.F.A. John lives and maintains a studio and gallery in Gearhart, Oregon. John also does pieces based on floral motifs.