Elissa Beach and Chester John love fused glass for what they describe as the free-flowing nature of the art. Together, they own and operate Silo Gallery + Studio, where they hold classes and offer studio and gallery space. Located between Wimberley and San Marcos on RR 12, the facility is a dream for the couple, who were recently married at the property. “So many beautiful colors and patterns in the glass; I really enjoy coming out here every day,” Elissa said. The business was started about five years ago with transforming the property’s original silo, which was previously used as an antique and feed store, into a glass art studio and gallery. “We shoved all of our equipment in to that tiny thing and just started out small,” Elissa said. Though they both worked at IBM in Austin before becoming full-time artists and business owners, they had little experience running a shop—starting small turned out to be a blessing. Just like the manmade waterfall that replenishes the koi fish pond that connects the original silo and their new facility, Elissa and Chester said they are all about going with the flow. They love that their business, along with their art, does not shy away from unavoidable wrinkles and ripples. Though fused glass is not the only form of art they enjoy, the couple has found some neat symmetry between the art form and their philosophy on life. “When you open that kiln, it can be wonderful, or it can be a disaster, but even the disasters can sometimes turn out really cool; it takes you in a different direction,” Elissa said. The studio takes custom orders and assigns projects to artists. The business also hosts date night events as well as classes and workshops to attract new visitors. Elissa and Chester said their business allows them to preserve their appreciation for art because they get to spread their love of art to others while taking on new challenges that come their way. “Everyone’s art that I see, I learn something different,” Chester said. Silo Glass 7990 Ranch Road 12, San Marcos 512-444-6494 www.siloglass.com Hours: Sun.-Mon. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Thur.-Fri. noon-6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., closed Tue.-Wed.