Nichols Art Glass, OR

Nichols Art Glass, founded in 2001 in The Dalles, OR, began with a dream and a garage. Founder Andy Nichols dabbled in different art media until he found his niche in glass blowing. He took several classes, built his own equipment and set out to teach himself the art of blowing glass. Soon he was able to leave his career of 20 years in the restaurant business and pursue his interest full time.

In 2004 Andy partnered with Miranda Teel and she quickly learned and became inspired by this art form. In the years that have followed she has truly developed her own style and vision.

Today Nichols Art Glass is a 2700 square foot studio and gallery filled with beautiful and unique blown glass pieces by Andy and Miranda. Together they own and operate the business and share their passion for glass. Working both as a team and individually, they create a myriad of pieces such as fish, pumpkins, cherries and large-scale installations.

Andy and Miranda are off-hand glass blowers who approach their craft in a non-traditional manner. They strive to challenge their boundaries with every piece and they work to maximize their individual capacities.

Nichols Art Glass supplies to numerous galleries throughout the Northwest. In addition, several larger installations may be found in regional hotels and lodges.

Andy Nichols and Miranda Teel work at an art by which they are both deeply inspired. They are dedicated to their art and to their space and they enjoy sharing their passion and excitement with others.

The Gallery

The Nichols Art Glass gallery opened its doors on July 15, 2007. Andy and Miranda worked diligently for nine months to create a space that would compliment their style and their connectivity to the Pacific Northwest.

Large timber beams span the gallery, lending physical and aesthetic support. Timbers also function as pedestals for visually pleasing glass displays.

Other interesting and unique displays have been created using an old wine barrel, a dredge from the Mississippi River and found on a Wasco farm, and what is thought to be an old boiler tank dragged by the artists from the mudflats of the Chenowith River here in the Columbia River Gorge area.

An inviting focal point of the gallery, especially during the colder months, is the large stone fireplace designed and built by the artists. The cozy warmth and bright dancing flames are a delightful respite from a chilly winter day.

The gallery is open to the public and has a close-up viewing counter where onlookers may experience the creative process. Occasional guest artists, as well as private parties, may be hosted at the gallery. Pre-arranged group field trips are encouraged!

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