Chad Balster began working with glass in Minneapolis in 1996. He later helped construct White Pine Studio in Battle Lake, Minnesota, before becoming a resident artist at Louisville Glassworks in Kentucky. There, he created innovative glasswork, taught classes, and built mobile glassblowing equipment. In 2023, Chad opened his own studio near Louisville’s Jefferson Memorial Forest, where he continues exploring new techniques, designs, and color possibilities. His work is exhibited throughout the Midwest, including his signature “Pods” series, inspired by medieval glass and known for its dynamic, sculptural forms.