Tara A. Spears
I think of glass artist Jo Lorimer this quote comes to mind: ‘Be fearless in pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.’ Jo has dedicated her life to creating beauty while celebrating color and texture. For the last few years, Jo has expanded her artistic portfolio to add an educational initiative to bring art out of the studio and into the public consciousness in hopes of inspiring a larger sense of artistic enjoyment.
She has tirelessly networked to try to get other artisans to gather for a weekly art market in the plaza. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that Glassworks Studio Mx is participating in the upcoming Guayabitos art show, Manos Del Artes’, 19 October from 5:00- 9:30 pm.
If you don’t arrive to Jaltemba Bay until winter, don’t worry, because the Art Classes are just starting in November. In addition, the exciting showcase of original glass, Dichroic jewelry, Silk paintings, mosaics and more are on display at the Glassworks Gallery, Calle Reforma 25, La Colonia, north La Penita. You can contact Jo whatsapp 322 109 5924 or FB message Glassworks Studio Mx to register for a class, check the visiting hours of the gallery, or to commission a stained glass piece of art.
“I have dreamed of having an art gallery since the 1980s,” said Jo. “A couple of years ago I was able to organize a gallery that offers my work and that of the student artists. “It is now at the same location as my studio.” Whether it is for your home, a gift or as a souvenir of your vacation, the variety of items in the gallery is spectacular.
For those new to the Jaltemba Bay area, Jo Lorimer originally started Glassworks, Calle #25 Reforma, as a stained glass material shop. It is where Jo creates and a place for you to get your custom designed windows, doors and glass supplies for the hobbyist. Over the years, Glassworks Studio Mx has expanded into a hub of creative lessons for a variety of artistic media.
You can create stunning functional artwork on your first try! The cost of the class includes the material needed.
Besides her busy teaching schedule and pursuing her own creative projects, Jo hosts a booth at the Monday Guayabitos market and other events. It’s not about sales to Jo, it’s about sharing art with everyone because she believes that art brings beauty into our world and makes it a better place.
Besides her eye for color and composition, Jo’s biggest strength is her passion for creating- it’s contagious! Those who have taken art classes with Jo have only raves about the experience. “I never thought I was talented but with Jo’s guidance and positive attitude I was pleasantly surprised that my project looked so good!” said one fused glass participant. Many find the laid-back studio to be inspiring- with all of the art on display it’s easy to get motivated.
Jo believes that art is important as an intellectual stimulant. A good artist evokes emotions through the intertwining of subject, color, and texture. “I am so thrilled when I create something that evokes feelings in the viewer.”
Art has the intrinsic ability to elevate the commonplace. It lifts the viewer beyond the confines of reality and into another world, such as the use of art to express fantasy or escapism. No matter what type of medium, art communicates across cultures, tells the stories of the past and present, and inspires minds to do beautiful things. “I need art as part of my life and wish for others to appreciate beauty- to make it, enjoy it and to do it together!” Thank you, Jo, for your inspiration and sharing your talent!
