Prairie Fire: Season 2 - Episode 3 - November 2024
This month, we take a trip south to check out the Scratch Brewing Company, located in Ava, Illinois. This unique microbrewery emphasizes local ingredients and a sense of place. Then we head north to Prairie Fire Glass in Monticello, a art gallery and glass blowing shop that showcases some unique glass artistry. Finally, we end up at Japan House, on the University of Illinois campus in Urbana, a place that strives to make traditional Japanese arts and culture accessible to everyone. We're treated to a traditional tea ceremony performed by Professor Kimiko Gunji.
The tiny Scratch Brewing Company, in the forest of Ava, Illinois – just five miles from the Shawnee National Forest – forages and grows their own ingredients for the award-winning beer they brew. The grow-your-own philosophy has also made Scratch one of the best places to eat pizza in the US.
Prairie Fire Glass (no relation!) is a glassworking studio and gallery in Monticello, Illinois. It’s owned and operated by glass artist Jim Downey,and features beautiful and functional artworks like vases, bowls, jewelry, and ornaments. Every piece is one of a kind, handmade on site.
We return to the Japan House on the U of I campus to experience a traditional tea ceremony and learn about the beauty of traditional Japanese arts and culture.
