Hot Sculpting Foundations with Doug Burgess

In this intensive workshop, students will build & improve a foundation and understanding of sculpting hot glass with a focus on teamwork and collaboration. Skill building in hot glass work is heavily reliant on repetition so most demonstrations will be short but informative to allow more time for students to work. One on one time will be given to insure each student has an understanding of the techniques demonstrated.

What to Expect: The primary goal for this class is for students to become more comfortable and confident sculpting hot glass. Students can expect to learn multiple types of sculpting techniques including solid sculpture, blown sculpture and inside the bubble sculpture. As well as other techniques including bit work, cane drawing for finer detail, different types of punties, and hot assembly. During this workshop we will sculpt forms including but not limited to the human form, critters, creatures and inanimate objects. Those with little to no experience will learn to gather hot glass out of a 2150 degree furnace and how to safely maneuver around a hot shop, as well as shape and manipulate hot glass. Read more about how to prepare for class on our Registration Info page.

Handling glass and tools may require a certain level of dexterity and ability to lift 5-10 lbs approximately.  To learn more about accessibility 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 Tuesday – Friday from 5-9pm. 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: Open to all levels including those who have never worked with hot glass and glass blowers who want to improve on their sculpting. Complexity with student projects will range with

student experience. 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. 

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 ar*****@********ss.org if you have questions about the class or would like to arrange a payment plan.

5 Sessions, Tuesday – Saturday, June 24th – June 28th, 10am-4pm each day
Instructor Doug Burgess