Painting with Lampwork Glass Beads with Ghislaine Sabiti

In this interdisciplinary workshop, students explore the intersection of painting, sculpture, and glass through the creation of mixed-media artworks that integrate flameworked glass beads. Inspired by abstract painting,  figurative painting, pattern, and graffiti motifs, participants learn how color, texture, and pattern can travel across mediums. Students will develop hand-painted compositions and create custom beads that echo the rhythms, symbols, or textures in their paintings. Through guided demonstrations and personal experimentation, the class encourages storytelling, technical skill development, and innovative material exploration. All levels are welcome. Simple painting images will be used in the class. Students will use the torch and glass rod as a painter uses a brush; translating strokes, patterns, and movement into lampwork glass beads and shaping molten glass with expressive, painterly gestures.

What to Expect: 

Beadmaking requires a little practice at heat control with the torch to create successful beads. Students can anticipate making 2-6 successful pieces in this class, along with some failures. 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. 

While beadmaking, participants primarily engage in seated activities such as working with glass rods and torches. The environment can be bright and loud at times. Handling glass and tools may require a certain level of dexterity. To learn more about accessibility the Accessibility page on our website.

Eligibility: No previous experience required. Open to ages 12 and up.

Pick-up: The glass needs to cool down overnight then be carefully removed from the mandrels, so the students will have to return to UrbanGlass once notified to pick up their work. 

This is an in-person class taking place on-site at UrbanGlass. Health and safety guidelines will be emailed to you upon registration

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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