Meet Warren Norgaard | Artist, Instructor, & Business Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Warren Norgaard and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Warren, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting Milkweed Arts wasn’t something I planned years in advance—it was something that grew out of passion, community, and timing. I had been teaching glass classes for a nonprofit and quickly saw not only how much people were drawn to the medium, but also how transformative the creative process could be for them. Art became a bridge—connecting people to themselves, to each other, and to healing.

I wanted to create a space that was more than just a studio or a store. I wanted Milkweed Arts to be a place where people could show up exactly as they are, feel safe exploring their creativity, and find a sense of belonging. The name Milkweed itself reflects that—it’s a humble plant, but one that supports transformation. It’s what monarchs need to grow their wings.

So the thought process was a mix of intuition, experience, and a deep desire to build something rooted in purpose. I saw a gap in the Phoenix community for accessible, inclusive, high-quality glass art education—and I felt called to fill it.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Milkweed Arts is more than just a glass art studio—it’s a community hub, a learning space, and for many people, a kind of sanctuary. We specialize in kiln-formed glass education, offering everything from beginner classes to advanced workshops with internationally renowned instructors. But what really sets us apart is our commitment to creating an inclusive, welcoming space where creativity and connection thrive.

I’m incredibly proud of the culture we’ve built here. People walk through our doors and often say, “It just feels different in here”—and that’s intentional. We lead with kindness, we meet people where they’re at, and we believe that art should be accessible, joyful, and healing. That philosophy extends to everything we do, from our teaching approach to our customer service.

Getting to where we are today definitely wasn’t easy. Like any small business, there were (and still are) plenty of hurdles—financial risk, staffing challenges, the pandemic, and even moments of self-doubt. But each challenge pushed us to become more resilient and more innovative. When something didn’t work, we asked why, listened carefully, and adapted. I’ve learned that being flexible and human-centered—rather than rigid or purely profit-driven—isn’t just better for the soul, it’s better for the business, too.

I want the world to know that Milkweed Arts is built on real values. We’re not trying to be the biggest—we’re trying to be the most meaningful. Whether someone is taking their first class, buying materials for their own studio, or just stopping in for inspiration, we want them to feel seen, supported, and empowered.

At the end of the day, this isn’t just about glass. It’s about growth, healing, and belonging. That’s the heart of Milkweed Arts—and my story.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was coming to Phoenix for the week, I’d roll out the red carpet—with desert flair, of course. This city is full of surprises, and I’d want them to experience the rhythm of it: the creativity, the food, the scenery, and the soul.

Day 1: Kickoff & Creative Energy
We’d start at Milkweed Arts, naturally—because what better way to jump into Phoenix than with a hands-on glass fusing class? Afterwards, we’d grab lunch at Pizza A Metro, this cozy little spot with wood-fired pizza that tastes like Italy found a home in Phoenix. Then we’d stroll Roosevelt Row and the Grand Avenue Arts Districts to check out the murals and galleries, maybe pop into Modified Arts or Five15. That evening, it’s cocktails and small plates at Bitter & Twisted downtown—because their drink menu is a work of art.

Day 2: Desert Beauty & Culture
We’d start early with a walk through the Desert Botanical Garden, where the plants are as dramatic as the sunrise. Lunch would be at The Coronado, where everything is fresh, colorful, and full of heart. Then we’d visit the Musical Instrument Museum—an underrated gem with sounds and stories from around the world. For dinner, we’d head to Cocina Madrigal—a local favorite with incredible Mexican flavors and a warm, welcoming vibe.

Day 3: Sedona Day Trip & Late-Night Blues
A day trip to Sedona is a must. We’d hike around Cathedral Rock, grab lunch at The Hudson overlooking those incredible red rock views, and stop into Tlaquepaque Arts Village for handmade finds. Back in Phoenix, we’d wind down with live music and laid-back vibes at The Rhythm Room. Nothing fancy—just raw talent and desert soul.

Day 4: Art, Art, and More Art
We’d make it a local arts day, starting with a visit to Mesa Arts Center and Shemer Art Center. These places give you a real feel for the Valley’s creative pulse. Lunch at Postino because… bruschetta boards. Need I say more? Then some time to wander and shop local.

Day 5: Local Legends & Late Night Laughs
We’d explore Heard Museum to honor Indigenous artistry and history, then grab lunch at The Fry Bread House. Later, some shopping at Changing Hands Bookstore and Local Nomad. That night? Comedy at Stand Up Live, followed by a sweet treat at Churn or Sweet Republic.

Day 6: Architecture + Indian Cuisine
We’d sleep in, do brunch at Matt’s Big Breakfast, then take a quiet, reflective tour of Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s desert masterpiece, to soak in the design and vision of one of America’s greatest architects. Dinner would be at Maya’s Kitchen Indian Cuisine—comforting, bold, and flavorful in all the best ways.

Day 7: Saying Goodbye (for now)
We’d do one last breakfast at Ollie Vaughn’s, pick up some handmade gifts at Phoenix General, and stop back at Milkweed Arts to pick up the fused glass pieces they made earlier in the week—now fully fired and ready to take home as souvenirs with soul.

Phoenix may be hot, but it’s also deeply cool—full of color, contrast, and creativity. That’s the version I’d want my best friend to experience.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely—there’s no way I’d be where I am without a whole constellation of people and support systems that lifted me up along the way. First and foremost, I’d dedicate this shoutout to my parents, who raised me to believe that creativity and compassion could coexist with strength. They were both incredibly hardworking people who modeled resilience and grace, even when life was anything but easy.

I also have to give deep credit to the students and artists who’ve trusted me with their learning over the years. Milkweed Arts was built as much by them as it was by me. Their curiosity, vulnerability, and hunger to grow are what continue to inspire me every day.

Professionally, I’ve been lucky to have friends and mentors in the glass community whose generosity of knowledge and spirit remind me what it means to be part of a real artistic community. And of course, the amazing team at Milkweed, past and present. They’ve shown up with heart and hustle and helped turn this into something bigger than any one person could manage alone.

Milkweed Arts may have my name on the paperwork, but it’s the result of a much larger circle of love, effort, and belief.

Website: https://www.milkweedartsaz.com

Instagram: @milkweedarts

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/milkweed-arts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MilkweedArtsAZ

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/milkweed-arts-phoenix