The Bead Project

The Bead Project is a scholarship program designed for economically disadvantaged women interested in learning a new creative skill to help provide supplementary income. Students learn the art of glass beadmaking and jewelry making as well as the entrepreneurial skills necessary to market and sell their work. Ongoing advocacy is provided to graduates by The Bead Project and UrbanGlass. Alumni receive monthly newsletters, beadmaking practice sessions or Open Torch sessions, lectures, exhibitions, demonstrations, networking, selling and teaching opportunities, as well as the constant help and support from fellow graduates.

The Bead Project curriculum includes 40 hours of glass beadmaking instruction and 10 hours of jewelry making techniques. All aspects of glass beadmaking and jewelry making are covered, including an overview of the equipment and tools; safety procedures for working with hot glass; a brief history and survey of bead types and styles; and resources for purchasing glass and other beadmaking supplies. After successful completion of The Bead Project curriculum, students receive a glass beadmaking kit and jewelry making kit containing all the necessary tools and equipment for continuing to produce their work.

How can students use these skills? Glass beads made their first appearance in 30,000 B.C. Evidence of the regard for glass beads as collectible items and as jewelry is abundant throughout history, and, to this day, there are many opportunities to sell and showcase glass bead jewelry. Through shows, markets, street fairs, galleries, stores, and the internet, there are infinite possibilities for glass bead artists to earn income exhibiting and selling their work. The Bead Project helps its graduates find these venues and puts them on the road to success.

The Bead Project was created specifically for low-income women, age 18 and over, living in New York City. Applicants should have some art experience in any medium; a brief presentation of artwork is required during the interview, applicants may show actual artwork, photos, slides, and/or digital images (jpg files on CD). Applicants should not be currently enrolled in an academic program. Previous glass experience is not required, nor is a formal art background.. Proof of income is required and must be included with the application.

To apply to the program, please download, complete and submit the application form below.

Shortly after the application deadline, each applicant will be called for an interview. Please bring samples of your artwork with you, such as actual artwork, photos, slides, and/or digital images (jpg files on CD). Please bring documentation of income to the interview as well. SSI benefits, welfare, unemployment, support payments, etc. are all acceptable forms of documentation. After all interviews are completed, program participants are chosen based on their applications, interviews, and artwork. All applicants who interview receive notification.

Deadline: September 1 for Fall Session; February 1 for Spring Session. All applications received between deadlines are kept on file for the following session.

For more information, call 718.625.3685 x 266, email miguel@urbanglass.org, or visit The Bead Project web site.