Final flame: glass artist Gerry Reilly prepares for his final Open Studios

After more than four decades shaping glass, Margaret River artist Gerry Reilly will open his studio doors one final time for the Margaret River Region Open Studios (MRROS) event this spring.

The renowned hot glass artist, whose striking blown glass creations have become synonymous with the region’s creative landscape, will take part in Open Studios for the 13th and final time in 2026 — celebrating a remarkable 45-year journey in glass.

Gerry established Melting Pot Glass Studio in Margaret River in 1990 and, alongside partner Margot Edwards, built a studio known not only for its handcrafted artworks but also for welcoming visitors into the magic of glassmaking. Gerry has created and sold his glass
designs through galleries and gift shops throughout Australia, and the pair continue to share their passion through commissions, studio experiences and special events.

“Over many years we’ve welcomed visitors into the studio, guiding them through making their own glass and sharing the thrill of children blowing their own baubles,” he said.

“I have enjoyed every minute of my journey and look forward to my 13th Open Studios event. I will host my final public glass blowing workshop on 30 August, along with a VIP event for Open Studios on 11 September.”

Gerry’s connection with hot glass began in his early 20s. After studying ceramics and glass at Monash University and the University of Tasmania, he worked in clay and glass studios before settling in WA’s South West in the mid-1980s.

MRROS Chair Jacquie Happ said Gerry’s story reflected the depth of creativity and craftsmanship celebrated through the annual event.

“While Gerry has been one of the participating MRROS artists, his and Margot’s legacy as supporters and practitioners of arts and culture in many areas in the region are long standing. I’m sure they can’t help but continue to build on those contributions! Open
Studios is about more than visiting studios — it’s about meeting the artists, hearing their stories and experiencing the passion behind their work.

“This year’s 155 artists represent an incredible breadth of creative expression across the region, from Busselton, Yallingup and Dunsborough through to Cowaramup, Margaret River and Augusta. We encourage Perth art lovers and visitors to plan a trip to the Margaret River Region from 12 to 27 September and experience the region through an artistic lens.”

Visitors can pick up or download the 2026 event guide and plan a journey through the region’s studios, from coastal locations to hidden back roads, discovering paintings, sculpture, wearable art, ceramics, glass and more.