Dr. Bill Harwood was bitten by the glass bug as an undergraduate chemistry major when he took a scientific glassblowing class at UMass Amherst. After earning his doctorate in Inorganic Chemistry from Purdue University, Dr. Harwood went on to faculty and university administrative positions at the University of Maryland College Park, Indiana University Bloomington, and is currently Chemistry & Biochemistry department head at the University of Northern Iowa (UNI).
In 2021, Dr. Harwood started glassblowing at JJ Gaffers studio in Des Moines, IA, and hasn’t stopped. His work was showcased in the solo exhibition Glassblowing: Four Stories from November 15–December 20, 2024 at the UNI Gallery of Art. For over 20 years, he has taught a course on the science of color at the university level. Through The Studio, he has offered an online class specifically about the science behind how color works in glass.
Exploring the art of glass with a focus on color and science.
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Our Mission
GlassAlchemy delves into the creative world of glass art, uncovering the intricate processes behind crafting unique pieces. We blend artistic flair with scientific precision to showcase the beauty and complexity of working with glass.
Our Vision
Our vision is to inspire and educate enthusiasts about the fascinating world of glass artistry, revealing the secrets of color and the scientific principles that make this art form a captivating blend of creativity and chemistry.