Open Studios is one of UrbanGlass' most special and beloved programs. It's a chance for members of the public of all ages to become immersed in our 17,000 square foot professional studio, see demonstrations explaining how glass shapes our daily lives, and get creative with hands-on activities. After two years of gathering virtually and missing the warmth of face-to-face connection, UrbanGlass is thrilled to finally bring Open Studios back to our Fort Greene space! As we hosted this vibrant event in-person for the first time since reopening, we were delighted to recognize some familiar faces and welcome new ones to our community.
Despite the cold and snowy weather, guests of all ages joined us for a variety of fun, spring themed art making. Fusing lessons invited people to play with shape, color and texture by layering pieces of flat glass and then bonding them together with the heat of a kiln to make decorative tiles and coasters. For those inspired to play with hot glass, lessons in beadmaking and paperweights gave visitors the chance to experience the thrill of shaping the material in its gooey molten state. Other activities like up-cycled bottle coloring, faux fused pendant making, and communal paper mosaic drawing encouraged everyone to discover the boundless creative potential of everyday materials. The afternoon also featured exciting demonstrations in glassblowing and coldworking, complementary techniques that artists have used for centuries in the making of objects we interact with everyday.
With something for everyone to try, Open Studios electrifies every corner of the studio with joyful energy. We love sharing the magic of glass, and look forward to welcoming our neighbors once again at the next Open Studios in June!
Please sign up for the UrbanGlass mailing list to be notified about upcoming Open Studios, and look out for our other public programs here.