Studio Futures
This opportunity is currently closed as UrbanGlass is actively searching for funding. If you would like to make a donation in honor of Studio Futures please email alejandra@urbanglass.org
Studio Futures aims to foster diverse voices in the field of glass art. The fund supports full scholarships for BIPOC identifying students ages 15-24 who want to learn glassmaking processes and build skills to use in their art practice moving forward. Recipients will explore glass techniques of their choice through classes and individual studio time.
While an independent opportunity, the cohort of 4 award recipients will gather multiple times throughout the year to share new work/skills with each other. The Education Team is excited to support the cohort in strategizing the best classes to take, encouraging new lines of exploration, and making professional connections.
With continued access to technical and conceptual training through our classes, young, BIPOC identifying artists will develop a basis of skill and style to pursue professional opportunities at UrbanGlass and in the wider world of glass art.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply?
The scholarship application is open to anyone who self-identifies as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, Person of Color), and is between 15-24 years old as of August 1st, xx. Applicants must be able to commit to the full duration of the scholarship (September xxx- August xxx), and live in NYC for the full term. You do not need to label yourself an artist to apply. If you’re creatively inclined, we want to hear from you!
I have never worked with glass before, can I apply?
Yes, please apply! Glass experience is not a requirement of the scholarship. We are looking for a demonstrated passion for artmaking and desire to pursue an artistic practice that includes glass.
What does the scholarship give you access to?
Recipients will select one class to take each season (fall, winter, spring, and summer) for a total of four free classes. You will also have weekly studio time outside of class, with access to our professional artist studios and materials to practice independently and continue developing ideas during Student Hours (3 x 3hr time slots during the week where university students have access to additional free studio time. You'll receive the Student Hours schedule in September). Access to the glassblowing studio will be limited based on available Student Hours in that area.
You’ll be learning from and alongside local, national, and international artists and students, and building lasting connections as part of a dynamic cohort within the larger glass community. The Education Team will be a supportive presence throughout the program.
What will I learn?
You will choose! We’ll kick off the program with demonstrations in a variety of glassmaking techniques to introduce you to the many possibilities of this material. Even if you are familiar with some processes, this introduction will help to guide which classes you want to take moving forward. If you still aren’t sure, we will offer a survey class in Fall xxx as a more in-depth introduction to each studio (hot shop, flame & neon shop, cold shop, mold shop, flat shop).
Check out the Classes page to get a sense of the classes you would be taking each season.
Get familiar with glass terms and what different techniques entail by reviewing our Glossary.
When do classes meet?
Scholarship recipients have the flexibility to choose classes that best suit their schedules. Given the goals for the scholarship, longer format classes are encouraged for deeper exploration.
The majority of our classes run on weekday evenings and weekends. Classes range from 3-hour introductions to 8-session weekly courses, and everything in between. Week-long winter & summer intensives meet daily from Tuesday-Saturday.
All classes for this scholarship will meet in-person at UrbanGlass, 647 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11217.
How will I stay in touch with other scholarship recipients?
Awarded students will have the opportunity to build a cohort together, sharing their experiences and teaching each other along the way. They will also make connections with professionals in the field who run their small businesses, fabrication, and art practices out of our studios.
Questions? Please attend one of our virtual info sessions or contact Youth & Outreach Manager Karina at karina@urbanglass.org or 718-625-3685 x247.
