A Tribute to Toledo’s Glass Legacy: The Art of Glass City Center

Toledo, Ohio—affectionately known as the “Glass City”—has long been a hub for innovation in glass manufacturing, a legacy that dates back to the late 19th century. Today, that legacy is beautifully reflected in the Glass City Center, a newly reimagined convention space that seamlessly blends art, history, and modern design.

As part of a $70 million transformation, the center is now home to a breathtaking collection of large-scale artwork, celebrating Toledo’s deep-rooted connection to glassmaking. Each installation, crafted from meticulously scanned and printed artwork, tells a story—one that merges past and present, craftsmanship and technology.

Among the highlights is Lucid Glass City, an ethereal display by artist Adam Frank, where mirrored glass and soft backlighting create the illusion of floating clouds, inviting visitors to step into a dreamlike scene. The Blue Lupine sculpture by Susan Zoccola stands tall outside the center, its towering steel and aluminum petals capturing light and movement, a striking nod to growth and transformation.

From concept to execution, these works were curated with intention, overseen by the Art in Public Places Committee in partnership with the Arts Commission of Greater Toledo. With an investment of over $1.5 million in public art, the Glass City Center now stands not only as a convention hub but as an immersive artistic experience—one that honors the city’s reputation as a pioneer in glass innovation.

As you walk through the halls of the Glass City Center, you’re not just exploring a venue—you’re stepping into a living tribute to Toledo’s glassmaking history, where creativity and industry collide to form something truly spectacular.