Exploring Texture and Surface Design Through the Cup with Terri Sigler

Using the cup as our canvas we will explore various forms of applying and creating texture. Students will bring images to use as a foundation for exploration. Based on timing and class desires, we’ll play with rolling up frit, stringers, chards, wire and wood chips, optic and/or wire molds, drawing/painting with stringers, stencils… all possibilities along with other creative ideas we concoct. Additionally, we’ll allot some time in the cold shop exploring surface design, perhaps through sandblasting, engraving and/or grinding. Our goal is to broaden the tools we use for creating art.

Requirements: Students are expected to provide images a week prior to class that will serve as foundational material for exploration and analysis.

This class will not cover how to make a cup. (Making a cup will be demonstrated solely to illustrate surface design techniques.) Demonstrations will focus on cup-making solely to teach surface design. Our first class will be held remotely on Zoom to allow more furnace and studio time in the following weeks. At the last class, students will share their cup collection in a show-and-tell class. 

What to Expect: Students will work together and learn to manipulate molten glass (2000 degrees). Safety and tools will all be covered in a fun and exciting environment. The hot shop is a loud studio, and can get quite warm. Glassblowing involves a variety of activities including sitting, standing, and working with hot glass. The environment can be very hot and loud at times. Handling glass and tools may require a certain level of dexterity and ability to lift 5-10 lbs approximately. Clean-up time is included in the duration of class, and usually the last 20 minutes of class are dedicated to cleaning your workstation. Read more about how to prepare for class on our Registration Info page.  To learn more about accessibility the Accessibility page on our website.

Eligibility: Previous experience required. Students should know how to create a cup in the hotshop to get the most out of this class. Open to ages 14 and up.

Pick-up: The glass needs to cool down overnight, so the 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 [email protected] if you have questions about the class or would like to arrange a payment plan.

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