Aurora Borealis Glassworks
- 6 hours ago
- 1 min read
Albuquerque, NM: John Owen is the owner of Aurora Borealis Glassworks in Albuquerque, the only public access glass art school in the city. He had previously served as lead instructor when the opportunity arose to purchase the established and successful glass-blowing studio. John reached out to WESST in May 2023 for financial and coaching support when he was in the process of purchasing the business.
John had more than a decade of hands-on experience in the art community, but he still faced barriers when moving into a commercial environment. The community lacked a dedicated space for both creating and teaching glassblowing art, and securing an appropriate facilit
y proved challenging. He sought guidance from WESST to formally structuring his business and support in evaluating and purchasing an existing operation.
Working together, John and his advisor developed a comprehensive business plan and marketing strategy to support his expansion into a full commercial operation, and he was ready to prepare and submit his loan application. His loan financed both the acquisition of the business and the purchase of essential equipment.
WESST provided consistent guidance and accountability, helping me stay on track.
Aurora Borealis Glassworks has since been featured on twice on New Mexico Living and was recognized with the KRQE BOLOE Award for the Best DIY Experience in Albuquerque. The art school has also expanded its community impact by partnering with the University of New Mexico’s Continuing Education program offering glass blowing, fusing and stained-glass classes.
