Hidden Gems: Meet Alison Harvey of Philabaum Glass Gallery

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alison Harvey.

Hi Alison, I’m so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, how can you bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
While attending the University of Arizona, I took my first Art History course; I was hooked almost immediately. I was fascinated by how a single work of art could say so much, and I furiously scribbled down every word coming out of my professor’s mouth. We learn about cultures, traditions, emotions, and opinions through art. Art always has been and always will be. I wanted to learn and talk about art forever and was thrilled when a position at Philabaum Glass Gallery in Downtown Tucson became available. I almost instantly found glass art captivating and the gallery to be the perfect setting for me. After managing Philabaum Glass Gallery for over 10 years, my husband, Dylan, and I purchased the business in 2020. We are proud to say we are Arizona’s only all-glass art gallery.

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
All small business owners would agree that the roads are not always smooth, but the struggles are always worth it when you do something you love. My first struggle came when I contemplated purchasing the gallery in 2020. It was a very uncertain time; the gallery was operating on minimal hours due to COVID, I couldn’t wrap my head around what the retail art world would look like in the future, and my husband and I had just welcomed our third baby in 5 years. I was a mess, but my incredible husband assured me there was no other option than to take over the gallery – it was what I loved, and we had to do it. We haven’t looked back since!

As you know, we’re big fans of Philabaum Glass Gallery. What can you tell our readers who might not be as familiar with the brand?
Philabaum Glass Gallery is the only all-glass art gallery in Arizona. We showcase the finest contemporary art glass from over 65 nationally recognized artists. We beautifully display and sell the most amazing glass art you have ever seen – blown glass vases, large sculptures, wall art, jewelry, everything. For over 40 years, we have been one of the premier glass galleries in the United States and enjoy working with customers and collectors from across the country. We hold ourselves, our artists, and the art to the highest standards and provide an exceptional experience for all our customers, whether they visit our location in Downtown Tucson or our website to purchase. We promise you will be in awe of the talented artists we represent!

Before we go, can you talk to us about how people can work, collaborate, or support you?
Spread the glass, love! We are still a hidden treasure, and we appreciate people spreading the word about us. It is so important to support small businesses, and we are grateful for the support we have received. From the smallest gift to the largest collectible, every purchase matters, and every bit of exposure helps. We all need more beauty! We are here to provide it.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.philabaumglass.com
• Instagram: philabaumglass
• Facebook: philabaumglass

Image Credits
All photos by Philabaum Glass Gallery.