Masterclass: Beyond the Bead – Sculpting in Soft Glass with Laura Quinn
Course Outline
Learn the foundational skills for controlling and sculpting soft glass - but without the mandrel! It is a perfect class for those who have tried a beadmaking or a lampworking experience and want to explore different and more intricate forms.
Over two days, you will develop a deeper understanding of heat control so that you can work soft glass in a more complex way. The focus of the class is on forms inspired by nature, from plants to creatures, making use of the wide variety of colours available in Effetre lampworking rods. For any keen kiln formers in the class, we will also discuss the potential for using lampworked elements within your own future fused glass projects.
Profile - Laura Quinn
Laura Quinn is an Irish designer and glass artist based in the UK. Her work, ranging from interactive glass sculpture to lighting, to wearable art and functional design is inspired and driven by her fascination with innovation of the material. Using a combination of digital technologies and alternative materials with traditional glass making, Laura seeks to push the perceived boundaries of glass. Through use of modular and interchangeable design her pieces become highly bespoke and offer the user a wide range of design possibilities.
Laura studied at the National College of Art and Design and Arts University Plymouth where she gained her MA in 3D Design Crafts. She has worked internationally in various studios including the Corning Museum of Glass, New York, Olustvere Glass Studio, Estonia and LoCo Glass, UK.
Laura’s work is regularly shown at high profile international exhibitions including the Ireland Glass Biennale 2019 & 2023, the British Glass Biennale 2022 & 2024, Collect 2020 and Collect Open 2024 and Biot International Festival of Glass 2024. Her work has been acquired by Ulster Museum for their Public Collection, and by the Office of Public Works for their Irish State Art Collection. Winner of two of Ireland’s most prestigious arts awards; The Golden Fleece Award and the RDS Craft Bursary, Laura also became a Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust scholar (QEST) in 2022.