Michael’s fascination with glass started as a teenager. He began studying glassblowing in San Francisco at Public Glass, completing their 9 month program. He then attended a three month concentration at the legendary Penland School of Crafts in Penland, NC,
where he focused intensely on glass.

Barnett assisted Herman C. Leonhardt of Swamp Art in Branchville, SC for two seasons. In November 2007 he opened the doors to his own studio,
Ganesh Glass, Charleston’s only hotshop.

The artist was especially moved and influenced by his travels to Asia (Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia), where he was introduced to Hinduism. He gained an appreciation for the many gods in this religion. Ganesh, the remover of obstacles, being his favorite Hindu god.

Please click any of the images below for a  larger view

 transparent green vase, 15"H,
$350

 black and white rod flutter bowl, 12 x 6,
$500

 transparent amber vase, 12.25"H,
$350

black with white cane swirled- iridescent black inside,
9 x 5.5,
$300

 hues of blue, green and white frit vase, 22"H,
$600

black with white polka-dot bowl, 7x11,
$500

blue and white frit vase, 12"H,
$350