Three smiling people sitting in a kitchen holding bottles, with string lights overhead. The person on the left has a tattooed arm and glasses, the person in the middle wears sunglasses and a red bandana, and the person on the right has sunglasses on her head and is holding a large bottle.

Meet the joyful humans that will guide you on your hot glass journey.

11 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Ariel is an emerging American multi-disciplinary artist, focusing primarily on glass. She holds a BFA in Fine Arts from New England College and an Associate degree in Scientific Glass Apparatus from Salem Community College. As a professional glassblower, designer, and educator, Ariel plays a pivotal role at Hot Sand, where she leads a collective of emerging artists dedicated to teaching and inspiring others.

A woman with curly hair, wearing glasses, a headband, and a sleeveless shirt, is pouring whipped cream onto a dessert with a big spoon in a kitchen or restaurant setting.

Ariel Mazzola

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

A man with a beard, glasses, and colorful tattoos on his arms, sitting on a glassblowing bench in a workshop, posing with a glass pipe he made. He is smiling, wearing a black tank top with a rainbow-colored design, patterned shorts, and a red bandana. The workshop has tools and equipment, a yellow safety screen behind him, and brick walls.

10 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Garrett found his passion for glass while attending college, where he earned a degree in Glasswork from Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC). Since then, he has worked at numerous glass studios across the United States, both small and large. Today, he is focused on expanding his expertise in glass techniques, with a particular interest in exploring color and form.

Garrett Skinner

GLASSBLOWER

Visitor Experience TEAM

At Hot Sand, our Visitor Experience Team is dynamic and dedicated to creating memorable moments for everyone who walks through our doors.

With a blend of creativity and passion, our team members engage guests of all ages through hands-on glassblowing workshops, educational tours, and fun-filled interactions.

Their ability to adapt and respond to the diverse needs and interests of visitors ensures that every experience is unique.

By fostering a welcoming atmosphere and providing exceptional guidance, our team transforms the art of glassblowing into an accessible and enjoyable journey, making every visit to Hot Sand a truly special occasion.

JAMIN

Visitor Experience Manager 

We prioritize a friendly experience for our customers. Jamin heads our Visitor Experience Crew in Asbury Park. Visitors report his team's customer service greatly improves their experience. Jamin has loved glass art since he was young, and his fused-glass line adds variety to Hot Sand's products. He can assist with any glass-related questions. For inquiries or bookings, please reach out to him and his team at studio@hotsandap.com. Psst, he is also a great songwriter.

JULIA

Visitor Experience Coordinator

The individual behind our street signs is pivotal in crafting memorable experiences for our customers. Julia shines brightly, consistently ensuring that each visitor feels welcome and valued. Her knack for inquiring how we can enhance the journey for everyone sets her apart. Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with her about art, music, or any fascinating topic.

DANIELLE

Visitor Experience Associate

Danielle’s focus on enhancing our customers’ high-touch experience has significantly improved our space. As a key addition to the team, her enthusiasm and interests bring an exciting dimension to our customer interactions. Psst, be sure to ask her about the Asbury music scene, her favorite baking recipes, or her volunteering with animals.