Turkish glassmaking is solidly rooted in history, it is supported by traditional and cultural elements and has developed over a period spanning hundreds of years. This study starts with discussing glass in its historical context, considering the interaction between culture and material, the harmony between the traditional and the contemporary and the impact of developing an academic education in the discipline; and the answers to these phenomena that come from the artists. It describes the many aspects of glassmaking in Turkey and discusses the development of studio glass art specifically in U. S. A. It also interprets the connection between the cultural values of Turkish glassmaking and studio glass and this concept is demonstrated in an exhibition of contemporary glasswork designed and made by the author mounted in Edinburgh College of Art in June 2000.