Taos Institute for Glass Arts (TIGA) strives to to expand the understanding and appreciation for the Contemporary Glass Art Movement through classes & workshops, lectures, demonstrations, special events and exhibitions.
TIGA was born from a unique opportunity coupled with the vision of local glass artists. At the end of 2007, it became apparent equipment brought to Taos by Dale Chihuly for his educational program at the Taos Pueblo was about to be forever lost. In January, 2008, five local Taos artists joined together to purchase that equipment in an attempt to preserve the future of art glass in this area. After the equipment was purchased and secured, discussion ensued as to how it might best serve the community. Thus, the concept of an educational non-profit was born. TIGA serves the community is through its offering of on-demand glass art experiences. Anyone can schedule a simple and fun instructive session on the use of glass and return home with a beautiful glass object that they have made under the direction and skill of a TIGA instructor/artisan. The experience enriches the individual's understanding of art made in glass and gives them a forever object to enjoy and by which to remember their experience. TIGA also develops educational programs for private and public schools. Glass is a perfect medium through which to incorporate a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathmatics) learning program, as working in glass incoporates all four STEM aspects. Further fueling its mission, TIGA supports and presents the biannual Taos Art Glass Invitational and Walking On Glass Tour. This international event was first produced by local artists in 2007. In 2008, it came under the TIGA umbrella and was produced biannually in 2008, 2010, and 2012. The fifth event will be presented in October, 2014. In 2012, TIGA received a grant from NM Arts in order to pursue the research and development of the NM Art Glass Trails Map. TIGA is currently seeking further funding to fully complete that inititative.
