The Belger Glass Annex is hosting its very first Masterclass in June 2024. 

Led by artist Minhi England, a finalist of the Netflix hit series, “Blown Away,” this class will focus on the glass sculpting techniques Minhi uses in her own artwork. Throughout this immersive five-day program, participants will delve into advanced hot sculpting techniques, including the integration of blown and solid elements to create sculptural forms.

The curriculum will encompass a thorough exploration of color application, covering nuanced methods of layering colors to achieve a vibrant palette. Participants will gain insights into the expectations of mixing glass colors and the strategic use of powder to achieve surface textures. The master class will also delve into bit-work for creating intricate patterns, garage assembly techniques, and the skillful utilization of the oxygen-propane torch to fabricate elaborate designs.

Class time will include demonstrations led by Minhi, providing a comprehensive overview of the techniques to be covered. Subsequently, students will have dedicated and guided blowtime to actively engage, learn, and practice the demonstrated methods, ensuring a hands-on and enriching learning experience. Class will begin each day at 9:00am with demos from Minhi, and students’ blow slots will be in the afternoon and evening going until 7:00pm.

Minhi’s artist talk is 6-7pm on Wednesday, June 5.

Her free public glassblowing demonstration is 6-8pm on Friday, June 7.

*Glass 2 or equivalent required.