World-renowned artists and collectors to gather in Warwick celebrating glass art movement

It’s not simply a desk accessory – the paperweight is an art form in and of itself. And now, glass art and paperweight artists, enthusiasts, collectors and newbies will return to New England for the 2024 Biennial Paperweight Convention hosted by the Paperweight Collectors Association (PCA). This year’s convention taking place May 15-18 at the Crowne Plaza offers three free opportunities for the public to learn about the art, history and legacy of glass making with demonstrations, a paperweight fair, and a documentary screening. 

“Paperweights don’t often get recognized for what they are – a display of glass art mastery by highly skilled artists,” said Eric Jump, vice president of the Paperweight Collectors Association board. “The roots of our decades-old organization are on the East Coast, and we are thrilled to be back in New England for this year’s Paperweight Convention.”

This year’s commemorative paperweights are inspired by the state of Rhode Island. The first, by artist William Manson, Jr., depicts a flamework bouquet of three violet blossoms on a transparent jade ground. The second, by artist Clinton Smith, shows the Rhode Island Greening apple with blossoms, buds and leaves. The limited edition paperweights are available for purchase to benefit the artists and PCA.

The convention will feature displays and exhibits by several national and New England-based glass artists. On Friday, May 17, the public is invited to join glass making demonstrations at Blackstone River Glass. On Saturday, May 18, organizers will host a free showing of a documentary film titled “Paul J. Stankard: Flower & Flame,” which highlights Stankard’s life and legacy. Also on Saturday, there will be a free Paperweight Fair where the public can meet the artists while browsing thousands of paperweights.

Find more information on the convention and free public events here.