About Us
Artists supporting artists.
Top Hat Glassworks is an artist-run collective dedicated to building a stronger future for glass
through collaboration, education, and shared purpose.
We believe the best work happens when artists invest in one another. By combining our diverse skills, sharing resources, and working collectively, we've created a sustainable studio where ambitious ideas can take shape. Through workshops, visiting artists, collaborative projects, and community partnerships, we strive to cultivate an environment where knowledge is passed on, creativity is encouraged, and the next generation of artists has the support to grow.
Our Story
Top Hat Glassworks began with a simple idea: artists are stronger when they create together.
In 2014, we built a small hot shop in a garage to support our own studio practice. As our careers grew, so did the space. What started as a place to make our own work gradually became a place to share knowledge, collaborate on ambitious projects, and welcome other artists into the process. In 2025, we expanded into the studio that Top Hat Glassworks is today.
We believe that a thriving arts community is built through collaboration, not competition. By combining our skills, sharing resources, and investing in one another, we've created a studio where artists can experiment, refine their craft, and pursue work that might otherwise be out of reach.
Our work extends beyond our own practice. Through workshops, artist residencies, collaborative projects, and community partnerships, we're committed to creating opportunities for artists at every stage of their careers. We see education as an exchange, mentorship as a responsibility, and community as the foundation for a sustainable future in glass.
Top Hat Glassworks isn't simply where we make art. It's our commitment to building the kind of creative community we want to be part of: one where knowledge is shared generously, artists are supported meaningfully, and everyone has the opportunity to grow.
Meet The Team
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MiNHi England
Studio Director | Artist | Educator
MiNHi built a micro hotshop in 2014, which has since grown into Top Hat Glassworks: a fully equipped cooperative hot glass studio. Her practice centers on hot glass, light, optics and experimentation. At Top Hat Glassworks, she helps shape the studio's creative vision through teaching, mentorship, and a deep love of very hot glass.
John Sharvin
Facilities Director | Artist | Educator
John is an artist, designer, and problem-solver whose work brings together glass, metal, digital fabrication and installation. At Top Hat Glassworks, he helps guide technical development, project planning, and the behind-the-scenes magic that turns ambitious ideas into buildable realities.
Bri Chesler
Grant Writer | Educator | Mixed Media Artist
Bri is a mixed media and installation based artist whose work blends glass, mixed-media sculpture, and immersive environments. At Top Hat Glassworks, she supports the studio through grant writing, creative collaboration, and a deep belief in making the arts more accessible, connected, and community-centered.
Miso the Miniature Boxer
Motivational Speaker | Bestest Boy
Miso is Top Hat Glassworks' resident miniature boxer, morale booster, and professional supervisor of snack breaks. He specializes in emotional support, dramatic side-eye, and reminding everyone that hard work is important, but not as important as making time for treats, naps, and being told you're doing amazing.