2 Day Intro to Borosilicate Glass with Elizabeth Welch

Discover the mesmerizing art of flameworking in this immersive two day introduction to borosilicate glass, held right here in Rotorua, New Zealand. Guided by acclaimed visiting UK artist Elizabeth Welch, you will step into the captivating world of glass sculpture. Elizabeth is celebrated for her intricate and realistic creations, blending classical techniques with a modern flair. This workshop is your personal invitation to learn the fundamentals of this unique hard glass from a true master. You will explore the delicate dance between heat, hand, and material, gaining a deep understanding of flame chemistry and the essential tools of the craft. Your journey begins on day one as you learn to command the flame, transforming clear glass rods into simple, elegant forms. You will practice flame cutting, shaping, and joining to create your very own glass scribe or a delicate hanging icicle ornament. On day two, your skills will blossom as you advance to more complex techniques. Learn to build structural forms, craft beautiful leaves and flowers, and pull fine glass stringers for detailed work. Elizabeth will also demonstrate her process for creating a small, intricate bird sculpture, offering a glimpse into advanced artistry. By the end of this incredible weekend, you will leave not just with a collection of your own handcrafted glass treasures, but with the confidence and foundational skills to continue your creative journey. This is a unique opportunity to transform a raw material into a work of art with your own hands, learning a heritage craft in the heart of Rotorua.