Continuing Education . Pre-College . Classes . Craft + Design

Craft + Design

Discover what it means to be a craft artist and entrepreneur in the contemporary craft world.

Session 1: July 7–19, 2024

A glass octopus created by a Pre-College student.

Students learning the art of glassblowing in the hot shop.

Colorful and abstract glass pieces created by Pre-College students.

A student learns how to create a vessel in glass.

Clear textured glass arranged in a panel format.

It’s an exciting time to explore contemporary craft, as artists and designers cross disciplines to meld traditional and new technologies to develop hybrid approaches to making. In this course, you'll learn introductory techniques and leading-edge technologies in Ceramics, Glass, and Jewelry + Metals.

We’ll examine the potential for two-dimensional image, three-dimensional form, and the cultural importance of craft, while gaining valuable hands-on skills in diverse materials and design approaches. Learning experiences will emphasize cross-disciplinary innovation, creative experimentation, and knowledge sharing with an emphasis on art, design, technology and entrepreneurship.

No previous experience in these processes is required. Faculty and staff will guide students through demonstrations, presentations, and group discussions.

Students will gain exposure to the facilities, studio environment, and career possibilities in contemporary craft.

Learning Objectives

Students will learn fundamentals of Glass (blowing, slumping, and cold working), Metals and Enameling (sawing, piercing, forming, enameling), and Ceramics (hand-building, wheel-throwing, glazing).