Meet Nancy Dillingham Marks | Artist, Instructor, Small Business Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nancy Dillingham Marks and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nancy, what is the most important factor behind your success?
One of the key factors behind the success of Glass Arts Collective is exceptional customer service. In today’s fast-paced world, I believe that true customer care is becoming a lost art, but it’s something I value deeply. To me, great customer service means more than just being helpful—it’s about truly listening to each person, being flexible where possible, and recognizing that every individual has unique needs, ideas, and aspirations.

Many people who walk through our doors have never heard of fused glass, and they often arrive with a mix of curiosity and apprehension. For some, the thought of working with glass brings up memories of accidents at home, while others are reminded of the intensity of glass blowing, with its high heat and intricate processes. And of course, there are always new concerns I hadn’t even thought of! But my goal is simple: I want to ease those fears and share the joy that I’ve discovered in fused glass.

At Glass Arts Collective, we take every precaution to ensure safety. But beyond that, we focus on the fun and creativity that comes with assembling glass pieces to create something truly beautiful. It’s an exciting process to watch as the heat of the kilns transforms these individual shards into stunning works of art. The best part for me is seeing the joy on my customers’ faces when they come back a week later to pick up their finished pieces—it’s a moment filled with pride and wonder, and it’s one of the many reasons I love what I do.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I had a wonderful childhood filled with curiosity and discovery, thanks to my parents, who opened my eyes to the wonders of the world. We traveled often, and even lived abroad when I was in third grade, where I immersed myself in new languages and cultures. Those experiences sparked a deep sense of exploration and adventure in me, which would carry through to my career.

When it came time to think about a career, I was torn and undecided. I eventually moved from Massachusetts to California, searching for what was missing in my life. On my very first interview, I was hired on the spot and started the next day—I knew then that the move was the beginning of something bigger.

My professional journey has taken me through many different roles, from clerk typist and receptionist to Executive Secretary, Office Manager, Director of Administration, and eventually COO of my husband’s networking business in Thousand Oaks. I handled everything from sales to operations, gaining invaluable experience along the way. But when my husband decided to sell the business and retire, I realized I wasn’t ready to stop. I still had more to give.

Knowing that this moment would come, I had already started exploring different career paths. I tried my hand at being a Massage Therapist and Travel Advisor, and while I enjoyed those ventures, they didn’t fully satisfy me. Throughout my life, I had dabbled in various artistic pursuits, but nothing really clicked—until I discovered fused glass.

Glass art was the missing piece of the puzzle for me. It combined creativity, beauty, and craftsmanship in a way that truly resonated with me. Starting Glass Arts Collective allowed me to turn that passion into a business, and it’s been an incredible journey ever since. What I love most is sharing the joy and wonder of fused glass with others, especially those who might be apprehensive or unfamiliar with it. I get to watch their excitement grow as they see their own creations come to life, and that’s something I’m truly proud of.

But the path to where I am today hasn’t always been easy. Like anyone, I’ve faced my share of challenges—both in business and in life. The key has been persistence, learning from each experience, and staying open to new possibilities. I’ve learned that success isn’t just about finding the right job or career—it’s about discovering what truly excites and fulfills you.

What I want the world to know about me, and about Glass Arts Collective, is that it’s never too late to find your passion. My career took many twists and turns, and it wasn’t until later in life that I found something that really lit me up. That’s what sets Glass Arts Collective apart—it’s not just a studio; it’s a place where people come to explore, create, and find joy in something new. Whether they’re stepping into the world of glass art for the first time or rediscovering a long-lost creative spark, we’re here to share that journey with them.

As my parents began aging, I suggested they move to California to enjoy the milder weather and so we could be closer during their later years. They chose to live at The Reserve, an assisted living facility, where my mom discovered something that brought her so much joy—a class in fused glass. She was absolutely thrilled by it, and I had never even heard of fused glass before, but I loved the idea of having something special to do with her. So, I decided to take a class at a nearby studio, and after that very first session, I was hooked! It wasn’t just a hobby; it became a passion, and I found myself fully embracing this new, exciting art form.

When the studio I had been frequenting decided to close its branch, I was heartbroken and unsure of what to do next. But my wonderfully supportive husband, Steve Marks, had a solution. While he laughed and immediately told me I couldn’t take over the garage, he also reminded me that I knew how to run a business—so why not open my own studio? That idea planted a seed, and it started to grow.

I turned to a dear group of friends whom I like to call my “board of directors,” and they gave me their unanimous support. With their encouragement, Glass Arts Collective was born. It wasn’t just a business; it was a dream come true, a place where I could not only continue my journey with fused glass but also share that joy with others.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d make sure they had the absolute best time exploring some of my favorite spots in the area. Here’s the perfect itinerary for a week full of fun, adventure, and a bit of local charm.

Day 1: Disneyland Magic
We’d kick off the trip with a full day at Disneyland! I’ve had the pleasure of visiting three of the six Disney parks around the world, and there’s nothing quite like the magic of Disneyland in California. From iconic rides like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean to strolling down Main Street and soaking in the nostalgia, it’s a must-do experience. We’d grab a classic Dole Whip and finish the day with fireworks over Sleeping Beauty’s Castle. Pure magic! I’d book in advance for a dinner at the Blue Bayou Restaurant.

Day 2: Hollywood History with a Local Touch
For Day 2, we’d dive into the history of Hollywood, and luckily, my husband, Steve, is the perfect tour guide—he was born and raised there! We’d hit all the classic landmarks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and the iconic Hollywood sign. But what makes this day extra special are the personal stops—places from Steve’s childhood, including his favorite local eateries and hidden gems most tourists wouldn’t know about. It’s like getting a VIP behind-the-scenes tour of Hollywood!

Day 3: Malibu Beaches & Pacific Coast Highway
No trip to California is complete without a beach day. We’d drive up the Pacific Coast Highway to Malibu, stopping at Zuma Beach to soak up the sun and enjoy the stunning ocean views. For lunch, we’d head to Malibu Farm on the pier, where we could enjoy fresh, locally sourced dishes with a breathtaking view of the ocean. The day would end with a peaceful sunset stroll along the beach.

Day 4: The Getty Center & Griffith Observatory
Today would be all about culture and views. First stop: The Getty Center. It’s one of my favorite places to visit, with its impressive art collections, beautiful gardens, and panoramic views of Los Angeles. Afterward, we’d head over to Griffith Observatory, where we could explore the exhibits and gaze at the stars. The views of the city from here are unbeatable, especially at sunset.

Day 5: Santa Monica & Venice
We’d spend Day 5 in Santa Monica and Venice. We’d start by walking along the Santa Monica Pier, maybe hop on the Ferris wheel for a bird’s-eye view of the coast. After that, we’d head over to Venice Beach to watch the street performers and check out the quirky shops along the boardwalk. For dinner, I’d take them to a cozy spot in Abbot Kinney, where we could enjoy some farm-to-table dining and local craft cocktails.

Day 6: Exploring Ventura & Glass Arts Collective
We’d start the day by visiting the beautiful City of Ventura. It’s an area rich in history, with charming small shops and fantastic restaurants that make it the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. After exploring the town, we’d spend a few hours at Glass Arts Collective, where I could share my passion for fused glass. Using the sights, colors, and sounds from their week’s adventures as inspiration, my friend would get the chance to create something truly unique in the studio.

For dinner, we’d head to Carrara’s Italian Restaurant in Moorpark, where we could enjoy a wonderful Italian meal. The evening would end on a high note at the New West Symphony in Thousand Oaks. Under the direction of conductor Michael Christie, we’d experience a magical night of music at the Civic Arts Plaza—a perfect way to wrap up the day!

Day 7: A Relaxing Day in Santa Barbara
After a week full of fun and adventure, we’d spend our final day winding down in the serene beauty of Santa Barbara. We’d take a leisurely drive up the coast, enjoying the stunning ocean views along the way. Once in Santa Barbara, we’d have a relaxing lunch at one of the charming outdoor cafés, where we could sit back, savor delicious food, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere of this picturesque coastal town.

After lunch, we’d take a gentle stroll through the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden or along the beach, just enjoying the peace and tranquility. It’s the perfect way to unwind and reflect on all the wonderful memories made during the week. No rush, just a calm, peaceful day to end the trip.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
When it comes to the success of Glass Arts Collective, I’m incredibly fortunate to have a talented and compassionate group of artists by my side. These are our Artists In Residence—many of whom started just like our students, taking that first Introduction to Fused Glass class, where curiosity and creativity spark. Their journeys into glass art have not only made them amazing artists but also wonderful, warm-hearted people.

What makes them truly special is their openness to share their stories and experiences with so much joy and excitement. Every time someone steps into the studio, they can feel that warmth—whether they’re a first-time visitor or a returning customer. The way they inspire and connect with others creates a space where everyone feels welcome, and that’s something I’m incredibly proud of.

I want to take a moment to give credit where it’s due, to these amazing artists: Abby Garner, Allison Laskey, Barbara (BJ) Fitzgerald, Carl Turnbull, Darlene Heusser, Katie Pope, Linda Simmon, Marty Robinson, Pat Spears, Patty Heinen, Shelby Wyllie, Stella Schloss, and Traci Katz. Each of them brings something uniquely beautiful to our collective, and their passion for glass art is felt by everyone who visits. Their creativity, kindness, and dedication are a big part of why Glass Arts Collective is more than just a studio—it’s a community.

Website: https://www.glassartscollective.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glassartscollective

Linkedin: https://wwwlinkedin.com/in/nancymarks

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

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@glassartscollective

Other: Hosting a new podcast: https://www.artisticexchangepodcast.com All about interviewing other creative / artistic folks from hobbies to established in their field, sharing their passion with the audience. I know everyone will learn something new each episode!