I’ve had several interesting discussions the last several days about bringing on and growing new collectors. I talked to Steve Early of Early Auction Co. and he tells me he has seen a few new young participants at his auctions. Also, a growth in his catalogue sales to new names. He sees this as encouraging. Steve believes we as collectors need to find ways to communicate to the new collectors that there are many wonderful Carder Steuben Glass collectibles at under $500. Things the new collectors can afford. That’s collecting some of the best art glass ever produced by what is, to this day, the premier American glass company. New quality art glass can’t compete with that. However, as Steve points out, when the results of his sale are published, the news is the latest record for the top pieces of Steuben. No mention of the great values that are under appreciated.

Another conversation was with Dean Six. Dean is the Curator of the West Virginia Museum of
Glass. Dean is concerned that we focus on the “rarified realm.” For his proof that the passion is there at the “lesser” levels he tells me about two glass clubs he has founded. One has been ongoing for 14 years and meets every month with no agenda, no officers, no dues. Only a show and tell. It attracts 16 -26 people and has never lacked for glass to share and discuss. Dean suggests that when we meet as a glass club we need to focus on beginners and intermediate collectors. His point is that power collectors can, and without meaning to do so, intimidate the newcomers. All of this analysis is focused on attracting new and emerging collectors.
These two speak from different vantage points, but both in their own way are suggesting we need to meet and generate new collectors without overwhelming them. Just for the appreciation of art glass which is available at all levels.
Dean accuses me of being in this rarefied realm he talked about. Oh my gosh. I remember only
eight years ago when I first began to collect and attended seminars, antique shows and a
Symposium. I remember well how overwhelmed I was by the experienced collectors. Dean is now
telling me I’ve become one of them and now doing the intimidating.
Dean, I want to see young collectors join in the fray and enjoyment. So, at our club’s membership meeting at the Symposium we’ll put your point on the agenda when we talk about next year’s Symposium. Thanks to Dean and Steve for your thoughtful critiques and efforts to spread the love of art glass.