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Zen Glass Studio & Gallery is a flamework glass studio founded in 2002 by artists David Walker and Josh Poll. They have been active in the St. Petersburg art community ever since.
To really dive in and make strides to become a glass worker we offer an educational approach to the learning process, where you learn how to run the torches, kilns, tanks and form a base for your glass knowledge that will take you to the next level and give you the tools you need to progress at your own pace.
Zen Glass Studio has an 22-year history in teaching lampwork/flamework glass to students young and old. If you are looking to start glassblowing, learn to be an independent artist, rent a torch spot and create your own glass pieces, start with our Beginner Class Flameworked Glass, Private one on one instruction in the hotshop, or the 15-week Glassblower Training Program.
Starting in 2002, students from Eckerd College, were brought in for a semester(sometimes 2) and submerged into the glass studio for a program to learn flameworked glass art. Many of our former students are making a good living and creating a life in glass. We now offer this intensive 15 week class to all who are interested in making a go at being a full time glass artist, in a “full immersion”, “holistic” setting geared to a structured, class like learner.
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- ZEN GLASS STUDIO & GALLERY
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600 27th St South,
St. Petersburg, FL 33712 - (727) 323-3141
Frequently Asked Questions
Zen Glass Studios offers of the few programs in the nation for a well-rounded and intensive education in flameworked glass. From solid sculpture techniques, such as jewelry and figurative work to glass blowing hollow forms like vases and pipes you will acquire the essential skill set to blowing lampwork glass. With live demonstrations and hands-on workshops you will learn techniques necessary to practice more efficiently to improve your skills quickly and pave the way to artistic exploration, and subsistence. Project-driven classes give artists an opportunity to use these techniques in creating finished pieces in the course of the program as well as a final project of your own design and subject matter. You will receive a safety guide, introduction packet, and topical handouts throughout the duration of course, therefore, it is recommended that you keep a journal for class notes, project designs and ideas.
What is Glassblowing?
Flameworking/Lampworking vs. Traditional Glassblowing
Heating Method: Flameworking, or lampworking, uses a torch that runs off propane and oxygen at nearly 3000 degrees to melt and shape glass tubes & rods, while traditional glassblowing involves gathering molten glass from a furnace at 2170 degrees F., then reheating in a glory hole and shape at a bench.
Glass Types: Flameworking typically uses borosilicate glass(pyrex) due to its ability to withstand temperature changes, whereas traditional glassblowing often uses soda-lime glass.
Scale and Detail: Flameworking is generally suited for smaller, detailed pieces, while traditional glassblowing is used for larger items.
Tools and Techniques: Flameworking involves tools like tweezers, reamers, and paddles, while traditional glassblowing uses blowpipes, jacks, wood blocks and rods.
Is it safe for beginners to blow glass with no training?
Just as working in a kitchen can be dangerous, glass blowers are not immune to small injury. That being said if instruction and safety procedures are followed, you should not experience any harm. Closed-toe shoes are strongly suggested, safety glasses will be provided.
Is there an age requirement for Workshops?
There is no strict age requirement for glassblowing workshops. We have had participants aged 8-80 who have thrived at the torch. You know your child or guest best and you should be the judge of whether they have the ability to stay focused and standing for the entire workshop.
I’m not artistic, will I be able to do this?
Glasswork is a unique sculptural form in that it follows a natural flow while in a molten state. The fluidity of glass creates beautiful feminine shapes all on its own, a great glassblower isn’t always a great artist on paper, but one who learns the material enough to predict changes in shape and movement while working on the torch.
I’ve bought a workshop and now I need to book it. How can I do that?
Click here to use our online scheduler. On the following page fill in your class information and preferences. If you have prepaid enter the word ‘prepaid’ in the box which says “click here to redeem prepaid voucher”.
Please remember to bring your proof of purchase to class.
I’ve bought a workshop and I would like to schedule it but I’ve already paid, what do I do?
Follow the steps above to book your class, enter the word ‘prepaid’ in the box which says “click here to redeem prepaid voucher”.
I am interested in throwing a private party, is the studio open as a venue?
Yes! We love hosting group glass blowing workshops, team building events, and cocktail celebrations. Please call or email us for a free consultation today.
We are in the area and are curious about the space, do you allow drop-ins?
Yes, please come by and see our studios, gallery and raw materials shop! You can walk right into the studio from the 6th Avenue South side of the building.
