Albert Young, the founder of Michigan Hot Glass, passed away at home on February 2nd, 2025, after a long battle with cancer. He was 73 years old and lived in Ferndale, Michigan, an inner-ring suburb of Detroit.
A respected and accomplished artist, Albert received his BFA in ceramics from the College for Creative Studies in 1982, and his MFA in sculpture from Wayne State University in 1988. In 1983, he founded Michigan Hot Glass, a creative hub that housed a glass studio, a steel-fabrication area, and numerous artists' studios. As an artist, he was serious, disciplined, and always striving to push boundaries. He saw glass not just as a medium, but as a means of expression. In his own practice, he pioneered a technique of combining glass and steel in formal sculptures alongside whimsical, experimental pieces.
Albert’s work was not just about art; it was about community. He was a passionate educator who taught glass both at the College for Creative Studies and at Michigan Hot Glass, where he had a profound impact on generations of Detroit-based glass artists. His efforts to spread the love and knowledge of glass included organizing five editions of the biennial Michigan Regional Glass Exhibition at the Janice Charach Gallery, bringing together artists from Michigan, Ohio, and the broader Midwest. In 2023, he was instrumental in bringing the Glass Art Society Conference to Detroit, with Michigan Hot Glass serving as a key venue. Albert’s tireless work to build the glass community was driven by his commitment to sharing his love for the medium.
Albert was known for his bold opinions, his willingness to speak his mind, and his sometimes gruff demeanor, but that was exactly what made him so beloved. He could be a harsh critic, but it was because he cared so deeply about his craft, his students, and the community. He was tough because he wanted everyone around him to succeed, to push themselves, and to truly master their work. He had high expectations and incredible generosity, whether it was supporting emerging artists, sharing his knowledge or studio space, or offering a helping hand, Albert was always there for those who needed him.
In addition to his work as a glass artist, Albert was a ceramist, sculptor, steel fabricator, and musician. He played in a local band, Albert Young and the Straight Eights, and was known for his love of music almost as much as his love of glass. Above all, he often spoke of how much he cherished being a dad. Albert is survived by his wife, Catherine Young, and his children, Nolan and Moriah.
A donation in Albert's memory can be made to the Michigan Glass Project, the Karmanos Cancer Institute, Hospice of Michigan, or a charity of your choice.