Toraason Glass Illinois Made

Peoria, Ill. – The Illinois Department of Commerce’s Office of Tourism released today the newest local Peoria business highlighted as part of Illinois Made video series: Toraason Glass.

Launched in July 2016, Illinois Made is an ongoing program that recognizes the artisans, products and experiences that are unique to the state. It offers Illinois Made-inspired travel ideas to encourage people to extend their travel beyond a day trip by exploring the local businesses and great attractions nearby.

Hiram Toraason was a business major at Southern Illinois University until he took a glass studio class that forever changed his life. He fell in love with glass blowing and travelled the world practicing his craft before settling down in Peoria where he has lived since 2003. He bought and renovated a 1930s machine shop which has now become the Toraason Glass studio and can be seen in the newest Maker video.

Toraason creates everything from large scale installations that have been featured in hospitals to small, non-functional, beautiful pieces of art. He says Peoria was a perfect place for his studio because it has a bustling art scene.

“We are proud that Illinois houses Toraason Glass. The gallery is a must-visit stop for any lover of the arts,” says Cory Jobe, Director of the Illinois Office of Tourism. “You can even try your own hand at glass blowing at the studio with classes of all levels.” 

Learn more about  Toraason Glass.