Stained Glass Art (VA116 Summer)

Develop your art practice by learning to create beautiful artworks with kiln fired inclusions, gaining the skills to add new and exciting elements to stained glass work.

What will you learn on this course?

In this project-based course we will develop an idea/theme that explores shape, colour, texture and surface pattern to create a traditional stained panel, incorporating fused and painted sections alongside traditional stained glass.

We will learn the basics of kiln fired glass painting and glass fusing. Fusing will allow us to use copper sheet and wire inclusions, as well as creating contours and texture by firing onto fibre paper. Accessory glass will allow us to add colour, pattern and surface texture. Finally, an exploration of painting techniques will introduce traditional paints and enamels.

The first part of the course will introduce a new technique each week:

• Copper inclusions: Using copper sheet, wire and copper oxide we will explore shape and texture. When fired these create interesting reactions with the heat of the kiln creating rich colour changes, and air bubbles.
• Fibre paper: By cutting and layering different thicknesses of fibre paper we will then fire glass onto it, to create contours and texture.
• Frit, confetti and stringers: explore surface pattern and colour by experimenting with compatible accessory glass.
• Painting: Using traditional glass paint we will explore different painting techniques that will be kiln fired to our glass. Learn to use brushes, dip pens and scraffito tools.
• Screen printing: Learn the basics of applying enamels through a screen and templates, as well as with a brush.
• Theme: Design our panel for the final project.

The final six weeks will be spent making a personal project using at least 3 of the kiln-based techniques we have explored. The piece can be made using traditional leaded techniques or can be copper foiled with a lead frame.

Participants will be encouraged to keep a sketchbook to learn the process of researching, gathering and developing an idea to create their own designs. Learn how to record experimental techniques, new processes and make notes on firing schedules.

Who is this course for?

This course is suitable for adults aged 18+ years. This is an improver level course aimed at those with some stained-glass experience. Full instruction and guidance will be given by the tutor.

At the heart of MAC is a focus on accessibility and inclusion. Please contact us to discuss your specific access needs. A high level of manual dexterity and tool handling is required. The room is wheelchair accessible. A personal assistant or companion must book a complimentary ticket if attending to provide support.

We strongly recommend that you do not attend the course if you are currently pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. This is due to the toxicity of lead which may be in use in the studio.

Do you need to bring anything?

All equipment and materials, are provided for the first six weeks of learning. Some additional material will be provided for your final project but you will need to bring your own glass, solder, and copper/lead. Your tutor will provide more information for what to buy when it is required. Kiln firing is included in the cost of this course, you do not need to purchase the additional Glass Kiln package.

Students are required to wear flat closed-toe shoes, preferably trainers or boots, as this is a workshop environment with sharp tools, soldering equipment and glass. Unsuitable footwear may result in the student not being able to take part in the session.

Long hair should be tied back. Protective equipment will be provided with the guidance of the tutor.

Are there any additional costs?

Glass, solder, lead, and copper tape for your individual project must be provided at your own expense. Please bring a notebook and pen if you wish to keep a sketchbook of your journey.

Who teaches this course?

Victoria Brown