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.
There’s a moment when the island turns toward summer. The light changes, the blues deepen, and you can feel it in the air—even if you can’t quite name it.
Almost Summer
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
There’s a particular kind of blue that shows up this time of year—just before summer fully arrives. You catch it walking down to the harbor, in glimpses between trees, or out over the water on a still morning. It’s not the bright, full blue of July. It carries a bit of spring with it still, which makes the warmth feel even closer.
Almost Summer was inspired by that in-between moment. The anticipation. The sense that something is about to begin.
On Vinalhaven, this is when windows open again, layers start to fall away, and the rhythm of the days begins to shift. The island isn’t at full pace yet, but you can feel it coming. The boats, the people, the long evenings.
This color holds that feeling—the quiet edge of the season, just before it tips forward.
About the Jewelry
Each piece in Almost Summer begins as sheets of dichroic glass, hand-cut and layered to create depth and movement within the color. The glass is kiln-fired until it becomes a single luminous stone, capturing the shifting blues and soft horizon line that define this color.
No two pieces are exactly alike, but all carry the same sense of light and motion.
The collection includes a range of styles—Candy Drops, Petite Pendants, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings—each offering a different way to wear the color. From a small, versatile piece you can add to your own chain, to a floating necklace or a bracelet that moves with you throughout the day, each one is designed to bring this moment of the season into your everyday life.
Wear it with soft neutrals, sun-washed blues, linen, denim—anything that lives in that space between spring and summer.
This is the piece you reach for when you can feel the season changing. The one that carries that first hint of summer with you.
Part of the 2026 Color Series
Colors inspired by the changing light on the Maine coast.
Gone South
Returning Light
Hello Spring
Blue Granite
April Light
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 artist Elaine Crossman, the Beach Stones bracelet reflects the quiet beauty of the shoreline—like smooth pebbles gathered from the water’s edge. Soft blues, sea greens, golden light, and cloud-white shimmer come together in a gentle rhythm of color. Versatile and quietly radiant, it pairs beautifully with both casual and elegant looks—much like the island itself, where simplicity and beauty meet at the edge of the sea.
Radiant and full of warmth, the Marigold bracelet glows with the colors of late-summer light—sun-washed gold, petal orange, soft rose, and a touch of shimmering white. Each fused dichroic glass link captures the essence of a flower-filled garden at its peak—bright, bold, and alive with color. Handcrafted in my island studio, this piece is both cheerful and refined, an easy way to bring a touch of sunlight to your day.
Part of my Islandscape collaboration with painter Elaine Crossman.
A dance of opposites — molten fire and glacial shimmer captured in fused dichroic glass. This bracelet glows with radiant reds, iridescent pinks, and flashes of gold and green that shift like sunlight on frost. Each glass tile is handcrafted, kiln-fused, and linked with sterling silver for a luminous, comfortable fit.
Whether it catches the light at a dinner table or glimmers softly in daylight, Fire + Ice II celebrates contrast — warmth and coolness, energy and calm — in perfect balance.
Part of my Islandscape Collaboration with painter Elaine Crossman, this piece reflects the vivid interplay of color and landscape that inspires both of our works.
April Light
April Light is that quiet moment when morning brushes the clouds with a whisper of pink, a flicker of gold, and pink again. A soft breath of blue-green moves through it, like sky and sea meeting for just a second before the day begins.
April Light Necklace
Enhance your necklace with a stunning silver chain, elevate your jewelry, adding elegance and sophistication that makes it truly stand out.
April Light Bracelet
April Light Earrings
The Story of the Color
This morning, the day didn’t arrive all at once. It edged its way in—softly, quietly—like it didn’t want to startle anything awake.
The clouds held onto the last of the night for a moment longer, and then, almost without warning, their edges began to glow. Not bold, not bright—just a whisper of pink, so light it felt like it might disappear if you blinked. Then a flicker of gold moved through it, warming the pink before it softened again, layering pink on pink in that gentle, shifting way only early light can.
And just beneath it, almost hidden, a trace of blue-green slipped through—cool and steady, like the sky remembering the ocean below.
It was brief. A handful of minutes, maybe less. The kind of moment you catch by accident, standing still without quite knowing why. And then it was gone, folded into the brightness of the day as if it had never been there at all.
April Light holds that fleeting edge of morning—pink, gold, pink again, with a quiet breath of blue-green moving through it. A soft, luminous color that lives in the in-between, where the day is just beginning and anything feels possible.
About the Jewelry
Each piece begins as layers of dichroic glass stones, hand-cut and thoughtfully arranged before being fused in the kiln into a single, glowing surface. The process transforms separate elements into something unified—light held within the glass itself.
As it’s worn, the color reveals itself slowly: pink shifting to gold, returning to pink, with a quiet breath of blue-green moving through it. The effect changes with the light, with movement, with the rhythm of the day—never static, always gently evolving.
April Light has a soft, uplifting presence—easy to wear, quietly luminous, and just a little unexpected. It pairs beautifully with neutrals like linen, denim, and soft gray, and adds a gentle glow alongside blues, greens, and even warmer tones.
Every piece is made by hand in small batches, and no two stones are exactly alike. Each one carries its own version of this fleeting morning light, offering a small, wearable moment that feels both personal and alive.
Part of the 2026 Color Series
Colors inspired by the changing light on the Maine coast.
Cold Harbor
Gone South
Returning Light
Hello Spring
Blue Granite
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!