10/07/2026
We lost one of the giants of the glass world with the passing of Paul Stankard (1943–2026).
Paul transformed the humble glass paperweight into something extraordinary. His flowers became so exquisitely observed and lifelike that people sometimes believed he had somehow found a way to encase real flowers inside glass. What followed was a generation of artists inspired by what Paul had made possible. More importantly, he helped change the way the world looked at the paperweight itself—from an object of craft into a serious form of fine art.
But those accomplishments only tell part of the story.
For those of us fortunate enough to know Paul, he was also remarkably generous with his knowledge, his time, and his encouragement. He cared deeply about young artists and about passing along what he had learned. We were always honored when he visited the Washington Glass School, and he was just plain great fun to be around—whether at Chicago SOFA, Glass Weekend at WheatonArts, or one of the many gatherings where the glass community became less an art world and more a big extended family.
Paul had an enormous influence on glass, but he never seemed interested in standing above the community he helped shape. He remained part of it.
After his battle with cancer, Paul has left us, but what he created—and the artists he encouraged along the way—will carry his presence forward.
These photos are how I like to remember him: not simply as the internationally celebrated master whose work entered museums around the world, but as Paul—artist, teacher, friend, generous spirit, and a wonderful person to share some time and a laugh with.
Rest well, Paul. You made our world more beautiful.
