In celebration of the Peabody Essex Museum's stunning Studio Glass collection, join us for a special immersive glassblowing workshop that blends art history and hands-on creativity.

A gallery talk led by Sarah Chasse, Curator-at-Large, will offer some background on the significance and artistry of PEM’s Studio Glass collection. Featuring works by more than 40 influential glass artists from the 20th century to today, the collection is renowned for its variety in form, scale and technique, offering a breathtaking display of contemporary glass art. For the second part of the workshop, participants will drive to North Shore Glass School for a hands-on glassblowing experience.

Under expert guidance, participants will form groups of four and take turns working on blown-glass paperweights. Each group will produce one paperweight. You’ll also enjoy a captivating glassblowing demonstration of some of the techniques showcased in the Studio Glass gallery.

This workshop will be split into two cohorts: one that starts at the museum for the Studio Glass tour, then proceeds to North Shore Glass School, and one that starts at the glass school for glassblowing, then proceeds to the museum. Both cohorts will have time for lunch (not provided). Participants will be assigned to a group and emailed with more information the week before the workshop.

PEM’s Creative Foundations classes are designed for both beginners and advanced practitioners seeking new challenges. These workshops blend access to our rich and diverse art collection with personal instruction from experienced educators and professional artists, making each session an immersive and enriching experience.