Poignon Project celebrates 10 years

TIFFIN — When Ryan Poignon first picked up a blowpipe in 2008, he didn't know the art form would become his lifelong pursuit. What started as a creative outlet has since grown into The Poignon Project, a glass studio and gallery in Tiffin now celebrating its 10th anniversary. "Once I was introduced to glassblowing, I was hooked," Poignon said. "I've always been creative, always making gifts and projects when I was younger. After high school, I invested everything I had into creating art." Poignon's grandmother was an avid collector and admirer of Tiffin Glass, which inspired him to see the value of carrying that artistic tradition forward in his own way. Today, he views his studio's work as both a continuation of that appreciation and a way to inspire a new generation of artists. "Over the last decade, I've been able to donate over 5,000 pieces of glass," he said. "A big part of what I do is sharing with others. Sharing the glass not only shares who I am as a person, but it makes people want to get involved with glassblowing again." Origins and growth The Poignon Project officially opened its doors in October 2015. Since then, it has steadily grown into a creative hub known for interactive events, hands-on workshops and one-of-a-kind glass art. The studio now produces about 3,500 pieces each year, with orders shipped across all 50 states and more than a dozen countries. Locally, Poignon's work is perhaps best known through public events such as the glass pumpkin scavenger hunt — a fall tradition that sends families searching for hidden glass treasures worth hundreds of dollars in prizes. He has also designed scavenger hunts with themes, including one centered on Taylor Swift, drawing wide community participation. In the studio, Poignon leads introduction classes such as marble and ornament workshops where participants choose their colors and create keepsakes together as individuals, couples or families. Many have made it a holiday tradition to return each year and make their own ornaments. "Glass is probably the most challenging art form to get into," Poignon said. "If you are willing to learn, and willing to learn from mistakes, you can do it. If you get frustrated easily, it may be more challenging. My job is to work safely with people so they can complete a finished project." His wife, Monica, contributes to the business with etching, engraving and behind-the-scenes work, including product development. Together, they've kept the studio steadily growing for a decade. "Every year, the business continues to grow — it has never slowed down," Poignon said. "I like to keep things simple." Teaching and community impact Poignon's commitment to sharing glass art extends beyond the studio. In 2021, The Poignon Project added a Community Art Shed, a free-access space at the studio stocked with supplies and tools for aspiring artists who may not otherwise be able to afford them. "The shed allows artists to come take what they need at no cost," Poignon said. "It's one more way we can make art more approachable and support creativity in the community." Last year, he also returned to his alma mater, Calvert Catholic Schools, to teach art and launch the school's first glassblowing course. The program, developed in partnership with Principal Mike Lento and Head of Schools Dr. Jeremy Marinis, gives advanced art students a rare opportunity to work directly with molten glass while also learning about the business side of the art world. "I had no clue I would return as an alumni to teach a class here," Poignon said. "It's been an amazing experience to see students get excited about the art form." "At Calvert Catholic Schools, we execute on holistic learning through supporting faith formation and cutting-edge experiential learning," said Dr. Jeremy Marinis, head of schools. "This course is an example of how student learning is brought to life in a business setting, learning the art of glassblowing while experiencing the intricacies of running a business." The anniversary celebration for The Poignon Project is set for Oct. 8 at the studio, followed by the annual glass pumpkin scavenger hunt Oct. 11. For Poignon, both events are a way to thank the community that has supported him from the beginning. "Over the last ten years, developing new products, building traditions with families, and sharing art has been what keeps me motivated," he said. "We're proud to celebrate this milestone with the community that has supported us from the start."