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Bottoms Up: Lessons In Midcentury Modern Part 2

  • Writer: Chris Hughes
    Chris Hughes
  • Jun 3, 2024
  • 4 min read

Martini MCM Background
Photo Credit: https://www.wallspruce.com/

Toward the end of the month, Bottoms Up: A Midcentury Barware Show will be in full swing, running from June 21-23, 2024.


As mentioned last week, the weekend will feature 10 free presentations, hosted at either the Fairfield County District Library Main Branch or the Ohio Glass Museum and Glass Blowing Studio. These presentations offer attendees enriching experiences and insights into the world of midcentury modern. Be sure to check out the link at the bottom of this blog for coverage of the first 5 presentations! Let's dive into the final 5


Libbey Glassware Ad
Photo Credit: https://clickamericana.com/topics/home-garden/libbey-drinking-glass-designs-from-the-sixties

Head on over to the Ohio Glass Museum and Glass Blowing Studio on Saturday, June 22nd, from 3 p to 4 p for an enlightening session on "Libbey Glass: Seventy Years of Decorating with my mentor Freda Diamond with Robert Zollwgeg."


Robert will take you on a journey through the evolution of early machine decorating, sharing insightful examples from the vibrant 1940s era. Shifting focus, he will delve into the legacy of Freda Diamond, one of the foremost glass decorating designers of all time, whose influence spanned from 1945 to 1990.


Concluding the presentation, Robert will provide insights into the end of the glass decorating movement and his own illustrious career, extending until approximately 2005.



Glassware Rebel: Fran Taylor
Glassware Rebel: Fran Taylor Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/gayfadstudios

You may have come across the name Gay Fad in relation to the Bottoms Up Event, but have you ever delved into the fascinating story behind it? Who was the mastermind behind this business and its distinctive name?


Discover the intriguing tale at the Fairfield County District Library Main Branch through a captivating presentation titled "Glassware Rebel - The Legacy of Fran Taylor and Gay Fad Studios." Fran Taylor, the ingenious entrepreneur behind Gay Fad Studios, spearheaded a revolution in mid-century glassware, defying societal norms one glass at a time.


Presented by David and Jason Annecy, this event promises to unveil Fran's remarkable journey and the enduring impact she left on mid-century design.


Join the Annecys for their enlightening presentation on Sunday, June 23rd, from 1 p to 3 p, and delve deeper into the extraordinary life of the woman behind Gay Fad.


Mike Shook
Credit: www.visitfairfieldcounty.org

Throughout the 20th century, a multitude of developments reshaped the world's landscape. Amidst growth and discovery, once-fanciful innovations became tangible realities. Despite historical setbacks, America's dreamers remained steadfast in their pursuit of hope and progress. Across technology, science, arts, and beyond, progress surged forward with unwavering confidence in the promise of the future. Born into a world brimming with potential, people eagerly embraced the notion of a modern era.


Since then, the enchantment of America's Mid Century Modern Era has been wholeheartedly embraced.


Step into this captivating era with Mike Shook on Sunday, June 23rd, from 1 pm to 2 pm, at the Ohio Glass Museum and Glass Blowing Studio for "Mid Century Modern With Mike Shook." Hailing from Lancaster, Ohio, Mike brings a wealth of experience, having served in the United States Air Force with deployments in Korea and Vietnam. His illustrious career includes stints at Anchor Hocking, Federal Glass, Kerr Glass, and Wheaton Glass, where he earned patents for his glass designs. After 37 years, Mike retired as the Director of New Product Development at Anchor Hocking, yet his dedication to the glass industry continued as he served as the Board President and a board member of the Ohio Glass Museum Board of Directors.


This presentation promises to evoke nostalgic sentiments, revive cherished memories, and offer a glimpse into days gone by. Don't miss out on this captivating journey through time!


Tom Felt
Photo Credit: www.visitfairfieldcounty.org

Gay Fad wasn't the sole luminary in mid-century design; indeed, Fran Taylor found herself amidst formidable competitors throughout her illustrious career.


Join us at the Ohio Glass Museum and Glass Blowing Studio on Sunday, June 23rd, from 2 p to 3 p for "Fran Taylor's Competition with Tom Felt." Tom will provide a comprehensive overview of the decorating game's contenders, including renowned names such as Georges Briard, Fred Perss, William A Meier, Ceraglass, Culver, and a few delightful surprises along the way.


During the mid-century era, there was a burgeoning interest in decorated barware and serving pieces, as the cocktail party became a staple of entertainment.


Tom, the Director of the Museum of American Glass in Weston, West Virginia, coordinates the annual American Mid-Century Modern Glass Symposium. He is an accomplished author on a diverse range of subjects, including glass candlesticks, cobalt glass, and Locke Art, among others. Additionally, he serves as the editor of MAGWV's quarterly magazine, All About Glass.

Don't miss this enlightening exploration of mid-century design and the dynamic competition that shaped it!

Cocktails

Are you intrigued by the allure of cocktail parties but prefer to skip the alcohol? Join us for "Marvelous Mocktails at the Fairfield County District Library," taking place at the main branch on Sunday, June 23, from 3 p to 4 p.


Meet Tori, the master mixologist from O'Huids Gaelic Pub, as she unveils the secrets behind crafting exquisite mocktails. Discover the art of blending flavors, classic pairings, and essential tips for concocting your own refreshing beverages. Get hands-on experience as you create your signature mocktail using the provided ingredients. Following a delightful tasting session, Tori will crown one lucky creation as the "Best Mocktail."


This presentation promises to inspire attendees with a plethora of non-alcoholic drink ideas, perfect for yourself or those abstaining from alcohol at your next cocktail gathering!




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