February 10-13, 2025, Poatina Studio space

Learn the techniques of incorporating images into cast glass pieces in this 4-day class. We will explore casting methods to produce a glass book that incorporates images and pre-fused elements. By joining a prefused and a precast element we will expand the possibilities of both practices to create works that are not possible with basic casting or fusing techniques.

The class will be made up of demonstrations, videos and plenty of hands on work.  Students will make one finished cast piece, a small multi stack block and a number of test tiles. Some experience with fusing or casting is expected - minimum 12 months experience of working with glass is ideal.

Topics covered include:

• Image making using decals and powder printing

• Wafer making and powder stencils

• Open face casting using silicone rubber masters

• Mould making for casting

• Reinvesting cast and fused elements to create final projects

• Dammed blocks with images

• Some coldworking

• Firing schedules

Capacity is limited to 8 participants, so get in quick!

About the artist

Brenda's work explores our relationship with existence, beckoning contemplation of life's ephemeral nature. Inspired by Victorian memento mori aesthetic, Brenda's imagery navigates themes of loss and mourning. 

Brenda works across a variety of mediums with a focus on glass as a vehicle for her storytelling. She works with cast, fused, and blown glass forms, using them as a substrate for her painting and screen-printed elements. Incorporating elements like hand-sewn components and sculpted waxes for lost wax casting underscore her methodical approach. She occasionally uses unconventional materials such as found objects and human hair to enhance the narrative.

Brenda graduated from Monash University in 1992 with a BA in Ceramic Design majoring in Glass. Initially she was drawn to the hot glass studio, its immediate and dynamically interactive nature appealed to her, however she soon realised that for her the hand of the maker need to be much more evident on her work. So, she focused on kiln formed glass, print making and mark making.

Her professional practice has included numerous workshops with local and international artists, acting as a studio assistant and running a dedicated community access studio. Her work is represented in collections in Australia and internationally.

Accommodation package available through Ausglass transport, accommodation and catering form or contact help.ausglassconf@poatinaarts.org.au if you have already completed the above form and need to make adjustments to allow for the workshop.