SAN ANTONIO — Making glass is an art form that goes back thousands of years, however seeing beautiful pieces come to life never seems to grow old.

• He’s been blowing glass for almost 20 years
• Caliente Hot Glass will be open for 5th Friday Art Walk

San Antonio glass blowing artist and expert Glen Andrews II has been perfecting his craft for almost twenty years.

"As soon as I realized that I could affect it, that it was something I could address and change, then literally at that moment I decided that it was what I wanted to do with my life," Andrews said.

Teamwork, relationships, grace, even zen — all things Andrews says he wouldn't have found if it weren't for glass.

In fact, this art is pretty much impossible to create without help.

"It's become kind of a dual lesson. I'm trying to become a better glass blower, but I can't become a better glass blower unless I become a more centered person because the glass will show you when you're not centered. That's for sure," he said.

Andrews spends his time creating and teaching at Caliente Hot Glass on San Antonio's East Side.

Caliente Hot Glass studio director Ruth Bushman says their business shines best when giving back.

"We use our art form as an opportunity to do art for good," she said.

Part of that opportunity means sharing with the community.

They're opening the studio up as part of the East Side's 5th Friday Art Walk at the end of the month.

"Our studio has been here over a decade and we're thrilled to be a part of it. You know San Antonio's the biggest small town; the East Side is definitely part of that. Your neighbors are great and the people here are amazing," she said.

Events like this help bring the neighborhood together, and for Andrews it's one more way he can share his talents.

"I always try to keep a mentality of gratitude. So I don't feel like I'm helping, I feel like I'm honored I can participate," he said.