Michael Peluso may have taken his first glassblowing class on a whim, but it didn't take long for him to realize he had found his calling. The work of the Dover-based artist will be featured during June at Radius, HACC gallery and museum shop. The gallery is located on the ground floor of the State Museum of Pennsylvania, Third and North Streets.

A contemporary crafts marketing major at HACC, Central Pennsylvania's Community College, Peluso previously completed a degree in visual art and design and has taken numerous classes at the Corning Studios of the Corning Museum of Glass, Corning, NY. He has studied under glassblowing and flameworking masters such as William Gudenrath, Michael Scheiner, James Nowak, Michael Rogers, Milon Townsend and Jane Bruce.

"Michael creates beautiful vessels and whimsical flowers," explained Jessica Lantz, curator of arts and assistant manager. "The blend of colors in his glass work results in unique pieces that stand out and sparkle on our shelves in Radius."

Peluso's work is on display in several regional galleries, restaurants and shops in addition to Radius. He has participated in Harrisburg's Artsfest and Kipona Arts Festival, Art for the Holidays in the Cumberland Valley and the 2nd Floor Gallery's "Featured Artist" open houses.

Radius will feature Peluso's work during an open house on Saturday, June 2, from 1 to 3 p.m. Peluso will be on hand to answer questions and meet visitors. In addition, light refreshments will be provided.

Radius is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on Sundays from noon to 4:30 p.m. Beginning in June, the gallery will be closed on Mondays. For more information, call 717-787-5590.

Radius is a partnership of HACC and the State of Pennsylvania/Pennsylvania Historical Museum Commission.