Rogue Wave Glassworks has been in operation for ten years. The company was envisioned in New Jersey, where its founder, Craig Hellemond, studied under world-renowned hollow figurative sculptural artist, Joe Luisi. After taking instruction for two years at the Scientific Glassblowing School at Salem Community College and earning an associate degree, Craig began his career creating lab apparatus. Expanding his talents and skills with glass, he then ventured into the art of jewelry making. Intrigued by her husband's achievements in this field, Carla took a year of study herself and became a designer and creator in her own right.

The two returned to Canada in 1998 and settled in the Highlands of Victoria. Over the next five years, the Hellemonds successfully grew their company by selling exclusively to large wholesale clients. But they felt disconnected from the public and others in the art community. Seeking a more direct link to both, they decided to try their hand at craft shows. The positive feedback gained from this experience led to a change in sales tactics. Their work is now sold both locally and internationally, including juried trade shows, galleries and retail outlets, as well as through custom collaboration.

In 2003, the couple relocated to Chemainus where they now reside with their young sons, Levi and Duncan. They set up their home and the present studio of Rogue Wave Glassworks on a secluded ten acre property in this Vancouver Island community.

The company has grown to accommodate six flameworkers. The team of glass artists work closely together under the direction of Craig and Carla. Although other forms of Venetian-inspired glass work are included in their product lines, their main focus is jewelry. For information about other items - such as goblets vessels and paperweights - please contact the company.