In the early ’90s, Jason Harris, a passionate devotee of the Grateful Dead and a cannabis enthusiast, established Jerome Baker Designs Inc. (JBD) in Eugene, Oregon. He cleverly chose the name “Jerome Baker” as a nod to Jerry Garcia and a slang term for being under the influence, all while maintaining a low profile from law enforcement.

Over time, Harris transformed the craft of glassblowing into an esteemed art form, introducing groundbreaking techniques such as silver fuming for a mirrored finish and crafting intricate glass art pieces. Despite his best efforts to fly under the radar, Harris’s work caught the eye of federal authorities, leading to his arrest in 2003 during the crackdown of Operation Pipe Dreams.

Following this setback, Harris sought refuge in Maui, Hawaii, and later in New York, continuing his craft away from the spotlight. The legalization of recreational cannabis marked a turning point, prompting Harris to reinvigorate Jerome Baker Designs in 2012, this time focusing on luxury art pieces. This revival led to the establishment of the Las Vegas Dream Factory, a hub for high-end glass art in the city’s vibrant Arts District.

The Dream Factory serves as a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship behind each piece, drawing visitors from across the globe. Harris and his team have created iconic works like “Bongzilla” and customized pieces for a roster of celebrity clients, cementing JBD’s reputation in the world of functional glass art.

In Las Vegas, the Dream Factory stands as a beacon for glass art enthusiasts, with Operations Manager Jennifer Krause playing a pivotal role in its day-to-day success. The gallery showcases the talents of renowned artists, including Harris himself, under the Jerome Baker pseudonym.

As Las Vegas evolves, with the advent of cannabis consumption lounges and major trade shows like CHAMPS and MJBizCon, Harris sees an essential role for these spaces in enhancing the cannabis experience. He reflects on the evolution of the bong from a hidden accessory to a celebrated piece of art, mirroring the changing perceptions of cannabis culture.

Harris’s journey from an apprentice to a mentor in the glassblowing community is a tribute to the art form’s pioneers and his contributions to elevating functional glass art within the burgeoning cannabis industry. The Dream Factory, nestled near Fremont Street, offers a glimpse into the fusion of art, history, and cannabis culture, making it a must-visit destination in Las Vegas.