What to expect from a Glassblowing career
Glassblowing programs at Ontario colleges train students to channel their creativity into designing and creating glass art. This art form requires patience, the ability to conceptualize and the gift of recognizing the beauty in imperfect and unique creations. It takes time to perfect the technique of glassblowing, but it is a popular niche market that’s been around for centuries.
If you’re creative, dexterous and want a career creating glass art, here’s what you need to know.
Glassblowing Courses
Ontario college glassblowing programs prepare students to enter the competitive art industry by providing the foundation in glassblowing techniques and theory they’ll need to start their careers. Programs are typically offered at entry- or post-graduate levels.
Courses may include (but aren’t limited to):
- Hot glassforming
- Cold working techniques
- Manipulating and combining materials
- Glass history
- Presentation sketches, 2D and 3D designs
Other courses will assist students in portfolio development and / or personal marketing strategies as preparation for entering the workforce or furthering education.
Glassblowing programs also heavily emphasize studio time, where students will perfect their technique and receive feedback from professional artists.
General Glassblowing Program Requirements
Glassblowing programs at Ontario colleges require an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, which includes grade 12 English. Some programs also require visual arts courses or submission of a portfolio.
Students wishing to further their education after taking a glassblowing certificate program may be able to apply their course work toward glass design-related diploma programs. (Entrance into second year may be granted).
Glassblowing Jobs and Salaries
Graduates of glassblowing and glass craft programs will find careers designing and creating glass art in independent studios, working in art stores and teaching glassblowing in educational institutions or community programs. Many graduates end up pursuing freelance opportunities or starting their own businesses.
It’s difficult to determine an average starting salary for glassblowers. Those who start their own business could make very little at the beginning as they establish themselves and build a client base, but could end up making a lot of money if their art becomes popular or they consistently sell pieces. In general, people in the arts and crafts industry start at roughly $30,000 per year, with the potential to earn more depending on the job.
Ontario Colleges Offering Glassblowing Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of glassblowing programs at Ontario colleges.
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