Beyond glass foundations 16 weeks

Beyond Glass Foundations

“Beyond Glass Foundations” is a 16-week intensive course tailored for individuals with a minimum of 12 months of glass experience. Limited to 5 students, the course focuses on advancing kiln-formed glass skills, emphasising idea development, professional practices, and technical complexities relating to glass. The curriculum is intended to inspire students to delve into any facet of the kiln formed glass-making process. Through a combination of theoretical insights, hands-on exploration, and one-on-one mentoring, participants delve into advanced techniques such as casting, fusing, and slumping. The course culminates in a group exhibition, fostering teamwork and providing practical experience in navigating the art world. With an emphasis on finishing work to professional standards, marketing, and exhibition strategies, students develop both artistic and organisational skills.

The course expands across a selection of Fridays, starting in June and finishing in December.  Contact hours will be 10 AM to 4 PM, complemented by an expectation for students to engage in preparatory work during their own time.

Dates:

June 7th, 21st and 28th

July 5th, 12th and 19th

Aug 30th

Sep 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th

October 4th

Nov 22nd and 29th

Dec 6th and 13th

Project-Based Learning:

Throughout the course, students will undertake a series of projects designed to explore diverse techniques, encouraging an in-depth comprehension of the medium. Weekly firing tests and glass pieces contribute to the creation of a comprehensive body of work, culminating in a gallery exhibition upon course completion. Each student is expected to pursue a self-directed approach in their work, assuming a foundational understanding of the chosen topic.

Prerequisites:

Attendance in the course presupposes a foundational understanding of kiln-formed glass, with a recommended minimum of 12 months of prior glass experience.

Key Study Areas:

1. Developing a Body of Work:
   • Exploration of advanced techniques through projects.
   • Focus on concept development, professional practice, and hands-on glass-making.
   • Topics can include casting, advanced fusing, slumping, screen printing, damming, high temp work, inclusions, and writing firing schedules.
2. Finishing Work to a Professional Standard:
   • In-depth exploration of cold working machines (Lathe, Linisher, diamond flat wheel, sandblaster, hand lapping, engraver, pneumatic grinder).
   • Encouragement to develop a unique artistic signature.
3. Marketing and Exhibiting Work:
   • Background focus on marketing strategies.
   • Guidance on grant applications, exhibition opportunities, and creating a digital presence.
   • Professional documentation of work with a dedicated photographer.
   • Group exhibition organization and interaction with galleries.

Course Requirements:

• Minimum of 12 months of glass experience.
• Physical preparedness for prolonged standing and operation of industrial machinery.
• Students expected to supply their glass (can be purchased through Blue Dog Glass).
• Additional firing costs may apply for larger projects

Materials and Equipment:

• Personal Protective Equipment (ear, eye, dust mask), wet apron, suitable studio clothes.
• Glass hand tools (glass cutter, grozing and running pliers, permanent marker, rulers, tape measures).
• Assortment of Bullseye glass (available for purchase from Blue Dog Glass).