The Museum of Glass is pleased to present Fire Gods: A Short Animated History of Glass. This original, 10-minute film appeals to audiences of all ages, especially children. It will premiere on Saturday, May 12 at 1 p.m. as part of the Museum’s May Family Day, Spring Spectacular.

The film traces the history of glassmaking from its inception more than 2000 years ago up to today’s contemporary glass. Two bantering-but-lovable fire gods, Ash and Burnie, serve as tour guides who highlight many of the transitional moments in the history of glass, such as the advent of glassblowing in the Roman period. As each historical innovation is revealed, the cutting edge animation gives way to beautiful hand-rendered drawings of seminal glass works representative of the period.

“Fire Gods is pure fun with a hearty serving of history as well,” explains Susan Warner, director of public programs. “It’s a quick, delightful introduction to glass as an artistic material.”

Fire Gods combines classic animation craft with 21st century technologies. It was produced for the Museum of Glass by The Animaticus Foundation, with support from DigiPen Institute of Technology, and designed and directed by award-winning British animator Tony White in consultation with Walter Lieberman and the Museum’s education staff. Beginning on May 13, the film will air daily in the Museum’s theater along with a selection of other glass-related documentaries produced by the Museum. It also will become an integral part of the existing Hot Shop curriculum for school groups and provide a focal point for a future curriculum on the history of glass.

Ash and Burnie, the stars of Fire Gods

Spring Spectacular Family Day Schedule of Events:
Saturday, May 12, 2007
1 – 4 p.m.
Bring the kids and grandkids for a fun-filled day to ring in spring at the Museum of Glass!
1 p.m. Premiere Fire Gods: A Short Animated History of Glass
1 – 4 p.m. Create a special Mother’s Day card with artist Jennifer Adams
1:15 p.m. Design Your Own Cupcake – decorate a cupcake with your own personal flair
1:30 & 3:30 p.m. Watch energetic jump roping performances by Double Trouble

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The Museum of Glass provides a dynamic learning environment to appreciate the medium of glass through creative experiences, collections and exhibitions. In addition to the Hot Shop Amphitheater where visitors can watch artists work, the facilities include galleries, outdoor exhibition areas, a theater, studio, grand hall, store and café.
The Museum of Glass is sponsored in part by the City of Tacoma Arts Commission, the Washington State Arts Commission, ArtsFund and Comcast.

Hours and Admission
Open Wednesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Third Thursdays 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Store is also open Tuesdays 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Summer hours: from Memorial Day through Labor Day, the Museum is also open Monday and Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Independence Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Admission is free for members, $10 general, $8 seniors, military and students (13+ with ID), $8 groups of 10 or more, $4 children (6-12) years old. Children under 6 are admitted free. Admission is free every third Thursday of the month from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Info Line 253-284-4750/ 1-866-4MUSEUM
Address Museum of Glass 1801 Dock Street Tacoma, WA 98402