Glass

Discover form in heat, light and transformation.

From the fiery glow of the hot shop to the calm precision of the coldworking bench, you’ll push the limits of both technique and imagination—connecting ancient craft with new technologies and ideas. Whether you’re driven by sculpture, design, installation or experimental media, you’ll find your creative voice and your community in the only glass-focused program in western Canada. 

Program Overview

AUArts' Glass program immerses you in every dimension of contemporary glassmaking—from blown and cast glass to fusing, lampworking, coldworking and experimental techniques. You’ll work in one of Canada’s best-equipped glass studios, mentored by internationally recognized artists and expert technicians. Courses blend rigorous hands-on projects with research, critical discussion and collaborative making.

As you progress, you’ll develop technical mastery, conceptual depth and a personal style, supported by advanced studio access and faculty mentorship. Flexible electives and interdisciplinary opportunities connect you with Sculpture, Ceramics, Media Arts and more—preparing you for a future as a creative innovator.

Program Highlights

• Master Every Temperature: Learn to blow, sculpt, and shape molten glass—then expand into kiln formed, cast, and coldworked glass, fusing ancient technique with contemporary ideas.
• Mold-Making Magic: Discover the secrets of glass casting in using everything from wax and clay to concrete and even ice. Make molds, cast objects, and experiment with repetition, modularity, and found materials.
• Make Images with Glass: Create imagery both on and within glass using innovative kiln forming and casting techniques—perfect for students interested in print, photography, or narrative art.
• Thematic and Contemporary Exploration: Discuss contemporary topics and new directions in hot glass. Tackle projects based on current themes and push your own interests within the global field of glass art.
• Installations, Light, and Interactivity: Open doors to sculptural installations, light-based artworks and interdisciplinary collaborations—mix glass with technology, performance and space.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Glass program will:

• Demonstrate advanced technical skills across all major glass processes: hot, cold, kiln formed, cast, engraved and sculptural.
• Integrate history, theory and contemporary discourse into their creative practice.
• Critically analyze and situate their work within the global glass movement, craft traditions and contemporary art/design.
• Master the collaborative and safety protocols essential for working in a professional hot shop.
• Exhibit conceptual problem-solving skills—translating ideas into ambitious, original pieces.
• Build a professional portfolio and confidently present their work in exhibitions, proposals and public forums.