Glass Department
The Wrocław Department of Glass is the only institution in Poland that educates students in the fields of utility glass design and glass art. The Department’s current structure and curriculum are the result of 60 years of tradition, combined with the introduction of new teaching methods and modern glass forming technologies.
Thematically grouped studios foster a lively exchange of experiences, encouraging experimentation and qualitative comparisons. As the only university in Poland, we operate our own glassworks, where we conduct art and design-based research projects and produce prototypes of utilitarian objects. Thanks to a modern approach to our curriculum, we enable diverse combinations of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary creation. We offer students activities that merge the medium of glass with new technologies, linking the design of intimate objects with architectural space composition. We also introduce various vessel-forming techniques alongside the creation of sculptural forms and installations. A comprehensive range of workshop capabilities allows for a modern approach to glass studies, utilizing multimedia, 3D printing, neon lights, flameworking, our glassworks, as well as multiple glass-shaping technologies in electric kilns. Furthermore, students can engage in large-format graphic design within our stained-glass studio, silkscreen studio, and glass printing facilities.
Studies in Glass Design encompass specialized major-specific, fine arts, and humanities courses. This ensures the comprehensive development of our students' artistic personalities, further enriched by classes in painting, drawing, sculpture, and new media in art and design. The core objective of this specialized education is to professionally prepare students to solve both artistic and design challenges.
The Artistic Glass studios allow students to undertake creative endeavors where glass serves as the primary medium for expressing painterly, sculptural, graphic, and architectural space concepts, providing the experience necessary for an independent artistic career. Design-related concepts are developed within design studios, aiming to prepare students for independent or collaborative design work, as well as cooperation with design agencies and the industry. The degree program provides complete artistic and design training by awakening and developing the creative individuality, talent, and sensitivity essential for the work of a contemporary glass artist.