Kelsie McNair

UrbanGlass fosters experimentation and advances the use and critical understanding of glass as a creative medium. The organization provides access to and an education in glass for professional artists, seniors, students, and members of the public of all backgrounds and familiarity with the material. We offer year-round free and low-cost programming through our 17,000 square foot studios, robust class schedule, fellowship and scholarship opportunities, exhibition center, and in-house printed magazine. Founded in 1977 by a group of dedicated artists, UrbanGlass sought to confront the many barriers limiting creative access to glass such as the high costs of real estate, equipment, and the scarcity of technical expertise. From the organization’s conception it served as it does today: As a creative hub and unparalleled resource center for artists, enabling this material to become available for experimentation beyond the confines of factories and universities in New York City for the first time. Today, glass is seen as an integral component of contemporary art’s complex landscape Our state-of-the-art studios serve over 12,000 professional artists and students annually seeking to learn about the possibilities of the material. Classes are offered to students at all skill levels and as young as age 11 in a variety of techniques, including glassblowing, kiln work, flame work, mosaics, and neon. Over 3000 students a year study and work with faculty that includes world-renowned artists and designers.