Nearly anything a mind can conceive Javier Vazquez, owner of Artisan Glass Arts Studio, can create out of glass. Glass art has been a central part of his life since he was 16. For many years his family contracted with Disney and created characters from glass that were sold at the amusement park. He learned the art of glassblowing from his uncle at Disneyland. Once he had learned the art, Vazquez also began to work for Disney. “I worked for Disneyland for 27 years in California,” he said. Disney then sent him to Orlando, Florida, where he worked for two years. He later worked for three years on the ocean liner Queen Mary when it was owned by Disney.

In addition to glass blowing, he has accomplished several other art glass techniques. However, he said his favorite process is a glassblowing technique called loose stitch. Using the technique he has created wedding cake toppers, castles, chandeliers and hand-crafted the world’s largest glass-blown Tennessee Vols football stadium. “It took about one year,” he said. It was a major project he created in addition to production work, he said. He creates glass figurines, drinking glasses, handmade art, gifts and “whatever people order,” he said. He also does live demonstrations for weddings, corporate events and other occasions.

Vazquez offers specialized lampworking and glassblowing workshops and private lessons for all skill levels in his studio. No experience is needed. Students can learn the beautiful art of lampworking — a small-scale glassblowing with a torch. “I’m capable of teaching seven people on a torch at the same time.” Students are taught safety rules and learn respect for the flame, he said.

Six years ago Vazquez moved to Tennessee with his wife, Sarah, and their son, Brandon, now 12. “It’s beautiful and I love the people,” he said. The family initially made their home in Spring Hill, before moving to Fayetteville a year ago. He said he wishes he moved here 26 years ago, because it’s so beautiful. “We came to Fayetteville originally because I wanted my son to come to a good Christian school and Riverside Christian Academy was it,” he said. “Best move we’ve ever made,” he said. “I have made lots of friends through church.” The family attends both The Rock and The Bridge Church in Spring Hill.

Classes and lessons are available by appointment Mondays through Saturdays and Sundays after 1 p.m. The studio is located at 118 Molino Road, on His Nature Farm. To view more of his work, go to his Artisan Glass Arts Facebook page. To contact Vazquez, message him on Facebook or call him at 951-575-6969.