WindHorse Arts is a fused glass jewelry studio on Vinalhaven Island, Maine, where I design and create limited runs of custom-crafted color entirely by hand.
The island is slipping into that particular kind of spring abundance where every patch of grass looks newly electric and the dandelions arrive like little bursts of sunlight. And tucked in among all that brightness are the forget-me-nots, tiny periwinkle blue flowers quietly catching the eye again and again. This week’s Color Drop was inspired by that feeling of walking through the world and suddenly noticing color everywhere.
Forget-Me-Not
Enhance your necklace with a stunning silver chain, elevate your jewelry, adding elegance and sophistication that makes it truly stand out.
The Story of the Color
Forget-Me-Not arrived in the studio at the same time the island tipped fully into spring. One day the landscape still felt brown and sleepy from winter and then almost overnight the roadsides, fields, and yards began filling in with bright green grass, cheerful yellow dandelions, and those tiny soft blue flowers that somehow glow against everything around them. Every year I forget just how striking forget-me-nots are until they return and begin quietly threading themselves through the landscape again.
This week’s color became a reflection of that experience of noticing. Noticing the small things returning. Noticing the way spring colors play against one another. Noticing how certain shades seem to hold light differently this time of year. The pale opaque periwinkle blue glass forms the foundation of the color, layered with a soft violet dichroic and capped in clear glass to create depth, glow, and gentle shifts between blue and lavender as the light changes throughout the day.
There is something wonderfully hopeful about this stage of spring. Everything feels full of potential again. Gardens are beginning to wake up, the days stretch longer into the evening, and the landscape starts offering tiny flashes of color everywhere you look if you slow down enough to see them. Forget-Me-Not carries a little piece of that feeling with it, soft, luminous, playful, and quietly impossible to ignore.
About the Jewelry
Each piece in the Forget-Me-Not collection is handmade from kiln-worked fused dichroic glass in my Vinalhaven studio. The pale periwinkle blue base glass is layered with light violet dichroic and capped with clear glass before being kiln fired, creating depth and luminosity that shifts beautifully throughout the day. Depending on the light, the color may lean more sky blue, lavender, or soft violet, much like the flowers that inspired it.
Forget-Me-Not pairs beautifully with natural fibers and easy spring and summer clothing including linen, chambray, cotton, soft denim, and lightweight knits. The soft blue-violet tones complement both neutral wardrobes and brighter seasonal colors while adding a subtle glow and conversation-starting pop of color. Designed to move easily through everyday life, these pieces feel equally at home at outdoor dinners, gallery openings, ferry rides, concerts, garden parties, coffee dates, long walks, and quiet ordinary days that deserve a little more beauty woven into them.
Part of the 2026 Color Series
Colors inspired by the changing light on the Maine coast.
April Light
Almost Summer
Alchemy
Quarry Reflection
Music
About the Maker
Hi. I’m Alison the artist and maker behind WindHorse Arts, creating fused dichroic glass jewelry on Vinalhaven Island in Penobscot’s Bay, Maine. For over twenty-five years my work has explored the relationship between color, light, and place.
My work begins as flat sheets of dichroic glass that I cut, layer, and fire in a kiln at nearly 1500 degrees. Through multiple firings, the glass transforms into luminous stones that shift and shimmer in the light. I set these elements into clean, wearable forms that allow the color to take center stage.
Living and working on a small island has deeply shaped my palette. My colors are drawn from the landscape around me—Atlantic blues, lichen greens, foggy silvers, spruce shadows, and the clear light of the Maine coast. I release these colors in small, limited runs, each with its own name and story tied to the rhythms of island life.
Over the years the work has found collectors across the country, many of whom return for new colors as they are released.
At the heart of my work is a deep respect for the craft of glass and the power of color. My goal is to create jewelry that is vibrant, enduring, and meant to be worn often—pieces that catch the light and become part of a person’s daily life.
Introducing Islandscape Bracelets
These Islandscape Bracelets are a joyful collaboration between painter Elaine Crossman and me, blending her expressive islandscape paintings with my fused dichroic glass. Each piece becomes its own tiny “painting,” alive with color, light, and the spirit of Vinalhaven. Every piece is unique — layered with hues inspired by sea, sky, spruce and stone — and pairs effortlessly with any outfit. Handcrafted on the island, these bracelets bring a touch of Maine’s landscape and light wherever you go.
Part of my Islandscape collaboration with painter Elaine Crossman.
Part of my Islandscape collaboration with painter Elaine Crossman.
Part of my Islandscape collaboration with painter Elaine Crossman.
Quarry Reflection
Quarry Reflection is inspired by late spring on Vinalhaven, when the new leaves glow yellow green against the darker spruce and the quarry water shifts between deep blue and green depending on the light. Layered fused dichroic glass captures those changing reflections in a limited edition color run designed to carry the feeling of the island into everyday life.
Enhance your necklace with a stunning silver chain, elevate your jewelry, adding elegance and sophistication that makes it truly stand out.
The Story of the Color
Yesterday afternoon I was swimming in the quarry with a friend, talking through this week’s color and looking around for a better way to describe it than simply calling it green. I pointed to the new leaves, that vivid yellow green that almost glows against the darker blue green of the spruce, while the quarry water mirrored the colors back in shifting layers of blue and green.
Swimming has a way of making space for that kind of reflection. Maybe it’s the rhythm of the water or the way conversations drift more slowly out there, but it often feels like thoughts settle into place more clearly when you’re floating between granite ledges and sky.
As we talked about the color and the landscape around us, my friend said, “Quarry Reflection.” And that was the name.
This glass carries those same layered shifts. At first glance it reads green, but as it moves in the light flashes of yellow-green appear, and underneath there’s a cool blue depth that surfaces at certain angles. It feels like the quarry holding the reflection of the trees along its edge.
Quarry Reflection is late spring on Vinalhaven. New leaves. Deep spruce shadows. Cold clear water. The island waking up again in layers of color and light.
About the Jewelry
Each piece in the Quarry Reflection collection is handmade on Vinalhaven Island, Maine using layers of fused dichroic glass. The shifting greens and blues are created through multiple layers of glass and kiln firings, allowing the color to change subtly depending on movement and light.
Quarry Reflection is one of those colors that seems to settle easily into almost everything. The layered greens pair beautifully with denim, linen, soft grays, black, cream, olive, and deep navy, while the flashes of blue and yellow green give it enough presence to stand out without overwhelming an outfit. It feels equally at home with a simple t-shirt and jeans, an oversized linen shirt, summer dresses, or something a little more polished for dinner out, gallery openings, weddings, or evenings by the water.
Designed for everyday wear, the jewelry is lightweight, luminous, and easy to live in while still carrying the depth and feeling of the landscape that inspired it. Like all WindHorse Arts Color Drops, Quarry Reflection is released in a limited edition and will be retired when the glass is gone.
Part of the 2026 Color Series
Colors inspired by the changing light on the Maine coast.
April Light
Blue Granite
Almost Summer
Alchemy
Music
Jewelry Hand Crafted with Color and Connection
Ready to add a splash of color to your day? Explore my vibrant collection of handmade jewelry, from sparkly earrings to stunning necklaces and bold bracelets – each piece as unique as you are. Crafted with creativity, color, and a dash of love, my jewelry is designed to make you smile. Let your accessories do the talking – shop now and find your new favorite piece!
Workshops, Craft Fairs and Open Studios
I love meeting people where the work lives. You’ll find me at craft fairs throughout Maine and New England, and here on Vinalhaven for open studios and workshops, sharing conversations about color, light, and the many ways handmade pieces become part of daily life.
Come say hi, ask questions, tell me what catches your eye, and get a feel for the glass. It’s always better in person.
Give the Gift of Color and Craft - Give the Gift of Handcrafted Joy
“WindHorse Arts is one of my favorite places to buy jewelry. The colors are unique and there is something for everyone. I had been looking for a sable brown earrings and this year WindHorse Arts had just the shade I was looking for. While I have never been to the physical store, shopping online is easy and products are sent out with blazing speed. Great for late gift giving! ”
— Heidi S.
“My wife and 3 daughters each have several items of Alison’s handcrafted artistry. As the inventory and designs are always changing there are always new items to add to their collection of jewelry.
— Guy W.
“My daughter loved the birthday gift I ordered from Alison. The earrings were as bright and beautiful as the picture on her website. I highly recommend for affordable, handcrafted gifts from Maine!”
— Lorri B.
“This summer, I was introduced to Alison’s beautiful work. Worn by 2 friends of mine, her necklaces and earrings are inspired by the world around her, designed with an intimate knowledge of her materials, and fabricated seamlessly, no mechanics visible, revealing the spirit pf the piece. Her pieces are aptly named — the names further the magic of each of her creations. The earrings we chose, in the colors of nectar and pewter and ember, are proudly worn by my daughter and me. Worn with pride and gratitude!”
— Susan M.
“I have bought several pairs of earrings from Alison. They are exquisite and are made with a lot of love and care. I have been wearing one pair for approximately 10 years and people still stop me to ask about them, they have not lost their luster. If you’re on the fence, buy her jewelry. You will NOT be disappointed.
_ Danielle M.
Crafting Color, One Piece at a Time
Hi, I’m Alison, the glass-fusing, color-loving creative behind WindHorse Arts! I’m all about making jewelry that feels as fun and vibrant as life itself. Every piece I create contains a pinch of serendipity and a lot of glassy goodness. I love working with glass because it’s dynamic, unpredictable, and full of surprises. Whether I’m popping colors together or experimenting with textures, I’m always aiming to create pieces that bring joy and that little “wow” moment when you wear them. Whether it’s a set of earrings that make you smile or a pendant that catches the light just right, each piece is crafted to bring a little joy and a lot of style into your day (and a little magic, because why not?).
Ready to add a splash of color to your life? Click below to see what’s new and explore the world of WindHorse Arts!
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Piece of WindHorse Arts Jewelry
At WindHorse Arts, I believe jewelry should be as fun and unique as you are! Whether you’re treating yourself or hunting for the perfect gift, here’s your guide to picking out something that’ll make your heart skip a beat (and maybe your friends a little jealous):
Go with Your Color Crush! Can’t decide? Start with your favorite color! Whether you’re obsessed with ocean blue, feeling the greens of a forest walk, or craving a pop of fiery red, let your favorite hue lead the way. You’re drawn to it for a reason, after all!
Occasions Are Great, But So Are Tuesdays
Sure, you might be eyeing something special for a birthday, but don’t forget about just because moments! A piece of jewelry from WindHorse Arts makes every day feel like a celebration. You deserve to sparkle, no matter the occasion.
Be Bold, Be Subtle, Be You!
Are you a “big statement” kind of person or more of a “quiet elegance” type? No worries – we’ve got something for every mood! Whether you’re rocking a chunky necklace or a delicate pair of earrings, there’s a piece that’s totally you.
Mix, Match, and Make It Yours!
Who says you have to pick just one? Stack a few bracelets, layer some necklaces, or go wild with earrings! My pieces play nice together, so feel free to create your own signature style that’s totally unique.
Handmade = Extra Love
Every piece of WindHorse jewelry is lovingly handcrafted, which means no two pieces are exactly alike. You’re not just buying jewelry – you’re getting a little piece of magic, made just for you. Isn’t that fun?
Pick a Piece to Match Your Vibe
Feeling calm and collected? Go for something soft and serene. Feeling bold and ready to take on the world? Find something that’s as vibrant as your energy! Choose jewelry that matches your mood and vibe, and let your accessories tell your story.
Give the Gift of Joy (Or Just Treat Yourself!)
Jewelry is always a great idea for a gift, but let’s be real – it’s also a fantastic way to treat yourself. Share the love (or keep it for yourself)! Either way, WindHorse jewelry is the gift that keeps on giving.
So, what are you waiting for? Let your instincts guide you, and pick out a piece that makes you smile.
After all, life’s too short for boring jewelry!
Do you have a shop focused on the joy of handcraft ~ Are you interested in carrying WindHorse in your shop :
Brighten Your Shop with Handcrafted Glass Jewelry!
Add a splash of color and creativity to your shop with WindHorse Arts' stunning collection of handcrafted glass jewelry. Each piece is a unique work of art, carefully crafted with vibrant hues and organic designs that your customers will love. From delicate earrings to bold necklaces and shimmering bracelets, our jewelry brings an effortlessly stylish touch to any collection. With a focus on quality, color, and craftsmanship, WindHorse Arts offers your shop the chance to showcase one-of-a-kind designs that speak to those who appreciate the beauty of handmade art. Ready to offer something truly special to your customers? Reach out today to learn more about carrying WindHorse Arts in your store!