Under Vacuum - Plasma Light Sculpture in Borosilicate with Angela McHale

In this comprehensive workshop students will learn the fundamentals of hollow sculpting in borosilicate glass at the torch in order to design plasma lighting. We will cover shaping, texture and proper seals in order to make simple and complex sculptures. Sculpting techniques will cover abstract and figurative forms. Learn to add and design around the electrode and filling tube. We will cover advanced topics like encasements, inclusions of phosphor and jacketing as well as problems and design challenges presented by this method of working. Once your glass vessel is complete and checked for leaks, we will put our pieces under vacuum and fill them with noble gasses! Class time will alternate between demonstration, discussion and plenty of work time. Students are encouraged but not required to utilize the evening open studio. On the last day we will light up all of our work and have our own private plasma show. Students should come to class with a sketchbook and plenty of ideas. Reference photos are encouraged for students with specific ideas they’d like to pursue. Experience working with hollow borosilicate glass is required.

What to Expect: Flameworking requires a little practice at heat control with the torch to create successful pieces. After demonstrations, expect to make some successful objects in this class, and a couple failures, while gaining more confidence and skill in the studio. Read more about how to prepare for class on our Registration Info page.

Flameworking can involve a mix of seated and standing activities, including working with glass rods and torches. The environment can be bright and loud at times. Handling glass and tools may require a certain level of dexterity. To learn more about accessibility the Accessibility page on our website.

Additional work time for intensive students: Students will also have access to additional hours in the hot shop, without instruction, on Tuesday - Friday from 5-8pm. Students must be able to work safely in the studio, and be able to set up their area without needing instruction. Students participating in student hours will need to be approved by the instructor and TA’s.

Eligibility: This class is an intermediate level class for flameworkers. No experience with plasma is required but students will need prior experience working with boro in order to be successful in this class. Open to ages 14 and up.

Pick-up: Neon tubes will be bombarded during the week of class, so students should leave with finished units of neon. Should processing take additional time, students will have to return to UrbanGlass once notified to pick up their work.

This is an in-person class taking place on-site at UrbanGlass. Health and safety guidelines will be emailed to you upon registration.

We recommend registering for classes early to reserve your spot! We base materials, and teacher needs off of student enrollment. Early registration not only guarantees your spot in class, but also helps to ensure the class will run. Classes with low enrollment may be cancelled within two weeks of the start date of class. Contact our Registrar of Education, Ari Eshoo, at [email protected] if you have questions about the class or would like to arrange a payment plan.

This is an in-person class taking place on-site at UrbanGlass.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

UrbanGlass, 647 Fulton St, Brooklyn, United States