Before the weather took a nose-dive into Snowmegeddon, I visited Ilene Layow’s Eye Studio open house.  It is currently located at 126 Doll Parkway, Syracuse, New York (13214), but it will soon find a three times bigger home in East Syracuse (at 712 W. Manlius Street).  The open house took place this weekend.

There is a kiln room and studio space, a three-bedroom home having been transformed by art and art-making.  Even the bathroom has a magnificent hand-made glass sink and tiles.

Ilene is a teaching artist.  I blogged about her last year when she had a Green Lakes-themed art show at the Manlius Historical Association.  It was there that I fell in love with her glass pieces.  I was finally able to purchase one today!

I bought the above piece – it is glass made with frit, tiny-colored glass bits that allow for dimension.  The glass is fused in the kiln.  This piece has a little shelf in back for a candle.  I love it!

She was selling her wares along with Jackee Johnson and Marcus Acevedo.  Jackee sells artsy fashion including tops and scarves and Marcus, who works out of studio space at Onondaga Community College, displayed ceramic goods.

Eye Studio teaches classes in acrylic painting, drawing, wheel throwing, watercolor, hand building clay, glass fusing and stained glass.  These classes are available to all skill levels and all ages.  Classes take place week day afternoons and evenings, and on Saturdays.  This is such an incredible resource in our community.  Ilene is teaching home-schoolers as well!

Then there is the option of a fun party – like a birthday party or a ladies night/family night where you gather with your favorite people and produce art – glass pieces, clay, paintings…you name it!  Call (315) 345-4576 to schedule yours!

The gallery is open by appointment as well.  For more information, check out the website – www.iteacharts.com.