MIRRORWORLD: Imperfect Practices in Neon & Reflection with Kacie Lees & James Akers

In this mirror-making intensive, participants will learn the basics of coating sheets of glass with silver nitrate to make unique mirrors, then enjoy time in the flames to bend simple, freeform shapes in neon to pair with our mirrored glass. Highlighting the inherent and imperfect nature of the human hand, we will draw inspiration from Rorschach, Chryssa, and Nacarro, discuss philosophies of reflection and look at contemporary and historic works of art that combine mirrored forms with electric light.

What to Expect: You will learn proper safety and disposal procedures for handling mirroring chemicals, along with safe techniques for bending neon. Neon tubes will be bombarded during the class, so students should leave with finished units of neon. Should processing take additional time, students will have to return to UrbanGlass once notified to pick up their work. Class includes one transformer and wiring kit. Read more about how to prepare for class on our Registration Info page. 

To learn more about accessibility visit the Accessibility page on our website.

Additional work time for intensive students: Students will also have access to additional hours in the hot shop, without instruction, on Wednesday - Saturday from 12-4pm. Students must be able to work safely in the studio, and be able to set up their area without needing instruction. Students participating in student hours will need to be approved by the instructor and TA’s.

Eligibility: No experience required. Open to ages 14 and up.

Pick-up: Neon tubes will be bombarded during the class, so students should leave with finished units of neon. Should processing take additional time, students will have to return to UrbanGlass once notified to pick up their work. 

We recommend registering for classes early to reserve your spot! We base materials, and teacher needs off of student enrollment. Early registration not only guarantees your spot in class, but also helps to ensure the class will run. Classes with low enrollment may be cancelled within two weeks of the start date of class. Contact our Registrar of Education, Ari Eshoo, at arianna@urbanglass.org if you have questions about the class or would like to arrange a payment plan.

Class Schedule

• 5 Sessions: March 25 — March 29
  Tuesday, 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm