Today we’d like to introduce you to Martha Morales Purucker.
Hi Martha , can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Mexico City, where I first trained as a chef before discovering my true passion — glass art. Since 2014, glass has become my language of expression, blending color, texture, and light through fused glass, stained glass, and mosaic work. Every new technique I learn deepens my connection to this craft and to the people I share it with.
My studio, Glassville TN, is where I create, teach, and help others find joy through making art in glass. I love guiding students as they explore materials, experiment with designs, and experience that moment of pride when they hold up a finished piece glowing with light. Teaching and seeing others grow creatively is one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.
Last year brought unexpected change when the 100 Taylor Street building closed, and I suddenly had to find a new home for my studio. What began as a challenge became a true moment of growth. Thanks to the incredible support of students, friends, and the Nashville arts community, Glassville TN found its new home at Studio 615. The space has been an amazing fit — vibrant, professional, and full of creative energy — surrounded by talented people who have made me feel right at home.
Today, from Studio 615, I continue to create, exhibit, and teach glass art while building a welcoming community that celebrates imagination, skill, and collaboration. This new chapter has reminded me how resilient and generous our arts community truly is, and how art continues to connect and uplift us all.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but it has been a meaningful one. From navigating hearing loss to relocating my studio, each challenge has pushed me to grow both as an artist and as a small business owner.
One of the biggest recent struggles was the sudden closure of the 100 Taylor Street building, which meant I had to quickly move Glassville TN and completely reimagine my workspace and workflow. That period was full of uncertainty, extra expenses, and long days of packing, problem-solving, and keeping students informed and supported while I looked for a new home for the studio.
At the same time, that difficult moment showed me how strong and generous my community is. Students, friends, fellow artists, and local partners stepped up with encouragement, resources, and referrals, which helped me land at Studio 615, a space that has turned out to be an even better fit for what I do. Now I have room to grow, collaborate, and welcome more people into glass art, and I carry a lot of gratitude for everyone who helped me through that transition.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At Glassville TN, I specialize exclusively in glass art — fused glass, stained glass, and mosaics — teaching hands-on workshops and creating custom pieces that capture light, color, and story in unexpected ways.
What sets me apart is my glass-only practice. Some say my work across techniques lacks cohesion, but I see the unity in pushing glass itself to its limits — discovering fresh ways to cut, fire, layer, and assemble it into sculpture, panels, and installations. I’m blending it with other art forms like mixed-media and upcycling discarded glass into sculptural works, an ongoing project that’s teaching me sustainability alongside beauty.
I’m most proud of persisting through doubt — many still view glass as craft, not fine art, yet I’ve built a thriving studio, community, and exhibitions like my current showing in Resilience + Adaptation at The Curb Center (through April 2026), pieces at Centennial Art Center, and Rose Hartman in Indiana. Not giving up, even when relocating Studio 615 tested me, proves art is about evolution and proving glass belongs in galleries alongside any medium.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
People can work with me in four exciting ways at Glassville TN:
Create alongside me: Join my hands-on fused glass, stained glass, or mosaic workshops at Studio 615. Beginners and experienced artists alike are welcome — it’s the best way to make art together and build skills in a supportive space.
Commission custom glass art: Reach out with your ideas, and I’ll bring them to life in glass — whether it’s a sculpture, panel, memorial piece, or design that captures your vision through color, light, and texture.
Show art alongside me: Propose a collaborative exhibit or pop-up featuring our glass and mixed-media works. I’ve loved partnering with fellow artists for community projects and gallery shows.
Invite me to show alongside you: Reach out if you’re curating an event, gallery night, or venue display. My glass sculptures and panels add light and color to any collection — let’s talk about making it happen.
The easiest way to connect is through my website glassvilletn.com, email, Instagram (@glassvilletn or @mosaicandglassbymc), or by booking a class directly. I love hearing new ideas for collaborations that celebrate glass and creativity!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.glassvilletn.com
- Instagram: @glassvilletn or @mosaicandglassbymc
- Facebook: @glassvilletn
- Other: tiktok @glassvilletn
