Glasstronomy Studios offers experienced and aspiring glass artists a unique space where creativity meets craftsmanship. Founded by long-time Markham resident Melanie Kidd, Glasstronomy offers a wide range of services, from hands-on workshops to custom glass commissions. Through expert guidance and access to top-tier materials, Glasstronomy Studios empowers individuals to explore their artistic potential while creating stunning stained and fused glass pieces.
Raised in Markham, Kidd fell in love with art as a student at Unionville High School. After graduation, she pursued a degree in chemistry at York University. While science holds a special place in Kidd’s heart, she says art has been her true passion.
“After I had my first child, I returned to my artistic beginnings, got into doing glass work, and fell in love. It just hit everything on my list. Be creative. Be dangerous. Be an engineer,” she says.
Kidd took a role at a glass studio in Thornhill, and when the owner retired, she says it was a moment to take stock of what she wanted to be.
“I discovered that I had a knack for business. I learned how to write a business plan and manage finances and marketing. So in 2012, I decided to open my studio,” Kidd says.
Glasstronomy Studios has evolved over the years, beginning as a commercial studio and growing into the community-focused small business it is today. Alongside her business partner, Elizabeth Beecham, Kidd has expanded Glasstronomy’s offerings to cater to glass artists of all levels.
“I learned that to survive as a small business, you have to be a small business. You have to focus on what is unique about you and then take it to the finish line. I discovered I love people. I love my community. I have a very vibrant membership of people who come together for social events, learning experiences, and fundraisers to support the community,” she says.
That community support includes Unionville High School, where Kidd first got her start as an artist. Today, you can find Kidd providing artistic instruction at Unionville, other Markham-area high schools, and the Markham Museum.
“I work to listen to my members and the community to create programs that work for them in their lives. I think we're the number one most advanced stained and fused glass studio in Ontario, maybe Canada. I can be really bold,” she says with a laugh.
Kidd has also created a small business arts mentorship program to support new entrepreneurs. She currently has three artists who are learning how to launch their businesses. One of the artists is a glass painter, and Kidd says the program gives him time to fine-tune his craft while building his business plan.
“He plans to launch into the gallery scene, so we're dealing with grant writing and applying for different memberships,” Kidd says.
Whether people discover the studio on social media or word of mouth, Kidd says they are hooked the moment they walk in the door.
“It’s a great place for people to be creative. It's a happy space. You leave your baggage at the door, come in, and everybody knows your name,” she says.
