Sheridan Welcomes Glass Enthusiasts to the Second-Annual Glass Gathering

The Glass Studio at Sheridan College’s Trafalgar Campus hosted over 200 people for the second-annual Glass Gathering on Saturday, September 6. Sheridan alumni, students and glass enthusiasts from the broader community convened for a full day of activities and networking.

“It was a great opportunity to bring together a group of people who are all passionate about glass making,” said co-organizer Sylvie Jensen. “We are a tight-knit community that is always excited to collaborate.” Jensen worked alongside fellow glass makers Loni Kimber, Megan Smith, Gabby Wilson, Koen Vanderstukken and Jason Cornish to organize the event. Many Sheridan students and alumni also volunteered their time.

Guests were treated to an exciting day of mini-lectures and panel discussions, as well as hot shop, flame working and kiln casting demonstrations. The topics covered ranged from how to create glass beads and bowls, to hot sculpting, to mixed media art using glass. 

Sheridan’s Alumni Association sponsored the luncheon at the event. “Many of the attendees who have gone on to have successful careers in the glass industry are graduates of the college,” said Jennifer Clarke, Manager of Alumni at Sheridan. “It’s great to have them back in the studio showcasing their skills and sharing their knowledge with students.”

The day wrapped up with the Glass Olympics; fun team competitions judged by a panel. There was also a silent auction for artwork donated by artists in the glass community and a showcase displaying work by current students in Sheridan’s glass program. “It was a very successful event,” said co-organizer Megan Smith. “We had a great turnout and a lot of enthusiasm from participants.”

This year’s event coincided with the first week of a new program at Sheridan for glass students. Students are now able to select a concentration in glass as part of a four-year Bachelor of Craft and Design degree.