Louise Telford
Louise Telford of Post Falls is a talented glass artist whose passion and dedication have taken her to new heights in the art world. Her creative journey began with explorations in spinning and weaving, but she ultimately found her true calling in glass art. Describing it as “the joy of my life,” Louise emphasizes how working with glass is both magical and inspiring. Her focus is on fused glass, and her work often features bold patterns and beautiful color, blending technique with personal expression.

Louise’s journey into glass art started in the early 2000s when she attended classes and eventually studied at Pilchuk Glass School, one of the most prestigious centers for glass art in the world. Her specialty is creating functional pieces such as sushi plates and sets, inspired by her love of Asian design. Her detailed, layered fusing process involves heating layers of glass for more than 20 hours, then firing again to complete each unique piece. She also works with jewelry and sculptural glass, often using dichroic glass to produce stunning, light-bending effects.

Outside of her studio, Louise balances her artistic pursuits with her role as a respiratory therapist at Kootenai Medical Center. She spends 30 to 40 hours a week creating in her expanding 400-square-foot home studio, located in the peaceful countryside she loves for its inspiration. Her family, including her children Shawn and Gideon, share her creative spirit—Shawn pursuing acting and theater, and Gideon skateboarding professionally.

Louise’s work has been exhibited and sold across the United States, including galleries in Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, Sandpoint, and beyond. She also actively contributes to the glass art community by donating pieces to support arts education and programs, such as the Pilchuk Glass School. Her skillful use of marketing and dedication have helped her build a respected presence in the contemporary glass art scene, and she continues to inspire with her mastery, passion, and heartfelt commitment to her craft.