RESEARCH INITIATIVES

Alchemy research
Fall 2025

This is a semester long research study group focused on Alchemy and Glass. As a discipline and a material, Glass is inherently connected to Alchemy. Their combined histories have shaped our understanding of the relationship between material and meaning, the role of process in art and science and, ultimately, the ways in which making shapes knowledge. One of the goals of this research group is to explore the conceptual and material potential of Alchemy through Glass. Our research combines the examination of practical, theoretical and historical texts along with "hands-on" experiments in Glass Department Shops. The group meets weekly for discussions, research presentations, lectures and working/lab sessions. As the semester progresses the direction of our research is determined by the materials brought forth by the group.

HOT GLASS CASTING & MOLDMAKING

SPRING 26

This beginning course introduces the materials and processes necessary for basic glass casting of solid objects and includes various mold making methods. Molten glass casting, glass fuse casting, pate de verre, optical slump casting; the techniques for making refractory molds, sand molds, metal or graphite molds; and the proper use of annealing ovens are introduced. Students apply new technical skills to self-generated projects

Optics Research
Spring 26

This class serves as an interface between the new technologies of digital and the old technologies of optics. New digital technologies are given alternative possibilities with the addition of specific projection apparatus (in terms of both, projection optics and projection surfaces), plays with reflection (such as the construction of anamorphic cylinders, zoetropes, and other optical devices), and in the fabrication of project specific lenses. Given the hands-on nature of the glass department, the actual making and/or subversion of traditional optics is possible. The class encourages collaborative work between students of varying experience levels and fosters the incorporation and dialogue between students of the two differing areas of expertise.

the molten window
Spring 26

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