At JOYRide, we believe local businesses and the arts are at the heart of a strong, connected community. Supporting spaces that celebrate creativity not only uplifts artists but also brings people together in meaningful ways. The Rising Phoenix Art Gallery is one of those spaces, rooted in passion, resilience, and a deep commitment to the local arts scene. We sat down with owner John Ryszka II to talk about his journey, the inspiration behind the gallery, and the role art plays in strengthening the community.
Tell Us About Yourself And Your Background As An Artist.
“My name is John Ryszka II, and I was born in Michigan City more than half a century ago. Throughout my early years, I took every opportunity to participate in art classes, eventually finding myself painting murals and theater backdrops. Later, I studied at Vincennes University, where I was first introduced to glassworking through both scientific and decorative glassblowing classes. That experience set me on a path that would define my career.
From there, I traveled to Benicia, California, to attend the National Neon Institute, which at the time was one of only three nationally accredited neon schools in the United States. After completing my training, I moved to Phoenix, Arizona, where I worked for a company called Neon Nightscapes. I chose Phoenix specifically because the owner was in the process of opening a glass school and was looking for individuals who were passionate about the medium—people who wanted to continue learning and eventually teach.
My employer, and truly my favorite boss of all time, John Perry, was incredibly supportive. He invested in my education by sending me to schools throughout the Southwest and even took classes alongside me. Over the years, I’ve studied a wide range of glass techniques, including neon, glassblowing, lampworking, fused glass, casting, stained glass, pâte de verre, and mosaic. Of all these, lampworking is my personal favorite. It offers immediate gratification while allowing for intricate detail and the construction of increasingly complex pieces. It satisfies a creative drive I’ve had since childhood—the desire to build beautiful, interesting objects that are, in many ways, constructions in themselves.”
How Long Have You Been Working With Glass?
“I took my first glass class 26 years ago, and I’ve been working full-time in glass for the past 23 years. That transition happened when I began working in Phoenix, Arizona, at Neon Nightscapes as a full-time neon sign bender.”
What Inspired You To Start The Gallery And Studio?
“Growing up in Michigan City, there were very few opportunities to exhibit artwork in gallery spaces. After spending years in Phoenix, my wife and I returned home with the goal of creating something that would fill that gap. We wanted to build a gallery that serves as a true outlet for local and regional artists—one that helps propel them forward in their creative journeys.
Our mission is to support artists at all stages. For emerging artists, we offer group exhibitions so they can share their work without the pressure of filling an entire gallery. For more established and prolific artists, we provide opportunities to take over the entire space for solo or curated exhibitions. These exhibitions aren’t limited to traditional formats. While we do host two-dimensional wall shows, we’ve also had artists transform the gallery into fully immersive environments—incorporating music, video projection, and three-dimensional installations that engage multiple senses.
My goal is to provide a space where the artist’s vision leads. The more I can facilitate that vision, the more rewarding the experience is for both the artist and myself. In addition to the gallery, I operate a glass studio within the same space. This is where I create my own work using a variety of torches, tools, and kilns. Much like the gallery, the studio is also designed as a place for others to explore their creativity.
We offer lampworking classes and are expanding into fused glass classes later this summer. Our aim is to create a welcoming, hands-on experience where people can explore something new in a supportive environment. Students who demonstrate proficiency and a strong understanding of safety are also able to rent studio time, giving them the opportunity to work independently without direct instruction. We’re also introducing a children’s painting series called Cookies and Canvas, designed for young, budding artists. It’s a fun, creative environment where kids can explore their artistic side—and yes, there are snacks involved.”
Why Did You Choose To Return To Michigan City?
“I was very content living in Phoenix—I truly love the dry heat. Temperatures in the mid-to-high 80s are my ideal comfort zone, and honestly, it never felt warm enough to go swimming until it hit at least 110 degrees. That said, moving back to the Midwest was a deeply intentional decision. Both my wife and I have parents in Michigan City, and we recognized how important it was to be present for family.
At the time, our children were still young, and we wanted them to grow up with their grandparents—to experience that connection while those generations could share time together. Today, we are full-time caregivers for one of our parents, and it has been a true blessing. Returning has allowed us to strengthen those family bonds and create meaningful relationships across generations.”
Why Did You Choose Midtown For Your Location?
“When we moved back from Phoenix, we had a very specific vision for what we needed in a building. Our list included a storefront, multiple apartment units, and the ability to live, work, and generate rental income all within one property. We explored options throughout Michigan City, including Uptown, but when we found the old Quality Television building, we immediately knew it was the right fit. It checked every box on our list—though, in hindsight, I do wish we had added ‘a large kitchen’ to that list!”
What Would You Most Like People To Know About The Gallery?
“If there’s one thing I want people to understand, it’s that this gallery is truly community-focused. It’s about creating opportunities—opportunities to learn, to share, to begin a creative journey, or to continue one. It’s a space where people can meet, connect, and support one another through art.”
How Can People Support The Gallery?
“The best way to support the gallery is simply to participate. Be willing to try something new. Come see an exhibit, take a class, or share something you’ve created. That willingness to step outside of your comfort zone is what builds a stronger, more vibrant community. We only get one chance to experience this life, and the people who engage fully—who take those chances—are the ones who enrich not only their own lives, but the lives of those around them. It’s a lesson I continue to learn over and over again.”
How Can People Get Involved Or Learn More?
“Our website, risingphxgallery.com, is the best place to start. There, community members can explore our current and upcoming exhibitions and join us for our opening receptions, which take place on First Fridays. These events offer a welcoming atmosphere where guests can meet artists, enjoy light refreshments, and experience new artwork.
Artists can also find information about open calls for group exhibitions. We regularly host opportunities for artists of all skill levels—participation simply requires the courage to take that first step. Applications are available directly on our website. For more established artists, the website also provides the option to inquire about hosting solo exhibitions or organizing group shows.
We also offer a variety of classes, including lampworking and, soon, fused glass. Our Cookies and Canvas classes are scheduled on specific dates, while our glass classes are offered by appointment. We’ve found that it’s much more effective to work around our students’ schedules rather than expecting them to fit into preset times. Anyone interested can call, text, or email us with their availability, and we’ll coordinate a time that works best for both the student and the studio.”
The Rising Phoenix Art Gallery is located at 2817 Franklin St in Michigan City. For more information, visit their website at risingphxgallery.com.
