2008 fall

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Glass Blowing (ART 547)

A class from San Francisco State University College of Extended Learning.

Instructor: Nate Watson

This course is for all levels. Emphasis is on the creation of sculptural artwork through explorations in molten glass. Technique and aesthetics will be taught.

Class dates: Aug 28 - Dec 15, 2008. 6:30-9:30pm Mon+Wed

blow-slot schedule

This was determined in the first week or so of class. It may be revised later.

last updated: 2008-10-04 20:00names in italics are slots 3 or higher

activities and events

2008.08.27 Wednesday: first class

Welcome to one and all!

2008.09.17 Wednesday

    • Critique identical cups from intermediate students and blown/solid spheres from beginning students.
    • Review the rhythm of beginning a piece (gathering, marvering, blowing, shaping)
    • Cup demonstration
    • Student practice

First long term assignment:

Develop a series of three works that are all related in concept and/or form. I would like you to articulate the relevance of this project for yourself and to your peers. Be able to express the source of your ideas and give us insight as to how the project developed and how your presentation to the class came to be. Please be thoughtful, original, and ambitious. As always please allow the class to be an active participant in you process helping to problem solve and work through ideas. Please let me know how I can assist you, especially if you are working beyond your scope of technical or physical ability which I will not discourage. Due date: TBD

2008.09.22 Monday

Color application/bar and powder/ optic mold Applying color application to solid working methods.

2008.09.24 Wednesday

Cold-working demonstrations. Materials and equipment used to cut, grind, polish, glue, and sandblast glass.

2008.09.29 Monday

Problem solving/ open forum for discussing issues and working them out in the studio through trial and error (a group exercise).

2008.10.01 Wednesday

Vessels/lids/handles/spouts

2008.10.06 Monday

Inclusions and surface design: Foils/copper wire possibilities/ graal technique.