JP Canlis' talent and true calling emerged early in life through the art of glassblowing. Established in 1996, JP launched his own glass art business, following years of technical and conceptual development. Today, he focuses on creating one-of-a-kind hand blown or sculpted works of art from his studio in Seattle, Washington with the support of his wife, Leigh, who runs their business.

JP and Leigh are a couple molded together by interests entwined in art, beauty and passion. The two met in 1997 while working for blown glass art pioneer, Dale Chihuly, in Seattle. While Leigh focused on Chihuly's sales and marketing, JP blew glass in the famous Chihuly hot shop. They developed a friendship based on mutual recognition and respect for one another's abilities.

Leigh recognized JP's individual merits as an artist when visiting his home in 1998. She encountered his incredible glass pieces, rich in color and unparalleled perfection, carefully sheltered in his loft.

She knew she was in the presence of a very talented, yet humble, artist. JP and Leigh soon found they were destined to work together to create a business of their own, Canlis Glass.

In 2001, JP and Leigh left for Hawaii for what was intended to be just three months (to prepare for a solo art exhibit of Canlis Glass in Honolulu). Unexpectedly, the demand for JP's work among collectors in Hawaii compelled them to stay. The islands became their home and inspiration for the next four years.

In June 2005, Seattle beckoned them home again. They found a 3500-square-foot downtown studio and have been located there ever since. Leigh's business savvy and support allows JP to pursue his career as a full time glass artist, with the sole concentration on his artwork. JP's passion for glassmaking, combining his technical ability with very personal concepts and curiosity, evolve with each glass creation.