ARTIST BIOGRAPHY                             

Tammy Rae’s creative journey began in childhood, weaving potholders on a metal loom and crafting colorful papier-mâché flowers by hand. These early moments of making sparked a passion that blossomed into a career in glass artistry. In 2011, she founded Glass by Tammy Rae, showcasing her work at craft fairs, gallery events, and art shows across the United States. Her skills deepened at the Bead and Button Show in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she took her first bead-making classes and later studied with masters like Doug Remschneider, Brent Graber, Sabina Boehm, Steven Hagstrom, Milon Townsend, and John Kobuki. She has since expanded her expertise through virtual classes with Julie Anne Denton, Bronwen Heilman, and Andrew Pollack.

Teaching is Tammy’s true calling. “I love teaching so very much,” she says, “sharing my skills with students willing to step out and try new things brings me endless joy.” Having had the honor of teaching at the Bead and Button Show, where her journey began, remains a treasured milestone. Her students’ boldness and creativity inspire her to explore new techniques, fueling her classes with fresh ideas.

In 2018, after years of traveling for shows, Tammy purchased a historic 1886 saloon in Waupaca, Wisconsin, near the Chain O’ Lakes, and transformed it into A Touch of Glass. In 2021, she relocated her studio and gallery to an 1888 former church, once St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, where vibrant stained glass windows illuminate her workspace. This inspiring space is perfect for crafting her intricate jewelry and hosting dynamic classes that build a creative community.

Tammy’s artistry has been featured on PBS Television and “Waupaca Now,” and her designs appear in publications like 1000 Beads by Lark Publisher, Irina’s Inspirations for Jewelry by Irina Miech, Collaborate: Friends in the Making by Brenda Schweder, Inspired Bead Embroidery by Sherry Seraphini, and numerous magazines. From childhood crafts to founding Glass by Tammy Rae and teaching the art of glass, Tammy’s story is one of creativity, connection, and a lifelong devotion to making.