Course Detail: GLASSWB - Glass Witch Ball


Course Description
Witch balls are a traditional glass novelty originating in 17th century England.  They were hung in windows to ward off any evils that may vex the occupants.

In this workshop, you will get the opportunity to make your own.  You'll get to pick from a selection a glass colors and be guided by the instructor in applying and melting the color to the molten clear glass gathered out of our furnace.  Then, you will be assisted in forming the interior decoration that is unique to Witches Ball's.  The instructor will then help achieve the final shape while you blow air in to inflate it into an ornament.

To prevent it from cracking, glass must be cooled slowly for at least 12 hours. Pieces made during a glass class must cool in an annealing oven and will be available for pick-up at a later date.

Workshops are limited to eight (8) participants. Minimum of four (4) participants.

Workshop Policies
Participants must be 13 years or older. Participants under 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.  Participants will be required to sign a waiver before beginning the class. Participants must come dressed in close-toed shoes, and natural-fiber clothing. Loose hair must be pulled back. Safety glasses and other equipment will be provided for participants' use. All classes include instruction in basic hot glass and studio safety.

About the GlasStation
ECU's GlasStation, which resides about 15 miles west of main campus in Farmville, NC, is the result of a grassroots effort by The Farmville Group, a volunteer economic development association interested in growing the local economy through the arts. The Allen and Stowe families of Farmville donated a former Gulf gas station to the DeVisconti Trust. ECU leases the GlasStation building from the Trust, and have outfitted the GlasStation with equipment to create a functioning hot glass studio.

Undergraduate and graduate ART classes for ECU students focused on glass blowing and making are regularly offered at the GlasStation. The first glass class began in spring semester, 2017.

Faculty
All glass classes are led by resident glass artist and ECU faculty member Mike Tracy. Mike received a BFA in glass from the University of Texas at Arlington, and an MFA in glass from Illinois State University. Mike joined the GlasStation and ECU's faculty in January, 2017. His work features both representational and abstract styles.

Like the GlasStation on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ECUGlasStation


Available Sessions - Click on Date/Location