Shannon Spruiell

Introduction

Hi, I'm Shannon Spruiell. My glassblowing journey began in 2015 while I was in college in Junction, Texas. I was studying painting and stumbled upon a glassblowing class. I had no idea what to expect, but from the first day, I was hooked! I kept taking classes and graduated in 2016. Through a colleague, I met Carlyn Ray, who owns a glass studio in Dallas, Texas, and got my first part-time glassblowing job there. Eventually, I decided to go full-time with glass and moved to Seattle, WA. Nowadays, I spend over 40 hours a week blowing glass. When I'm not in the hot shop, I love cooking, writing, walking my pit bull, Duncan, and Jam Skating, which is basically dancing on wheels.

Career

I've been a Seattle-based glass artist since 2018. I got my B.F.A. in Fine and Studio Arts with a minor in psychology from Texas Tech University in 2015. I worked as a glass artist and later as a studio manager at Glass Eye Studio from 2018 to 2022. After some time in the intense production world, I decided to branch out and become a freelance artist, using the skills and experience I gained.

My focus now is on engaging with the community and helping individuals dealing with trauma and PTSD. I currently work in various studios across the greater Seattle area, teaching and creating in spaces such as Schack Art Center, Pratt Fine Art Center, Museum of Glass, and Chihuly Garden and Glass. At the Museum of Glass in Tacoma, I have the privilege of teaching veterans through the Hot Shop Heroes program, which offers a meaningful opportunity for healing and personal growth through the art of glassblowing. Additionally, I serve as a glass demonstrator and public speaker at Chihuly Garden and Glass, where I share the art form with visitors, inspiring creativity and fostering appreciation for the beauty of glass.

Mission

At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to connecting with the community. I have the privilege of working with individuals affected by PTSD and trauma, guiding them toward healing, peace, and trust through creative collaboration. For me, the act of creating glass art goes beyond self-expression—it is a powerful pathway to healing, growth, and meaningful connection. My mission is to advocate for those who have experienced trauma, offering the support they need when the justice system may fall short. Through my art and teaching, I aim to make a lasting positive impact, helping others discover the transformative and healing potential of creativity.