Job Description: Art and Design - Fine Arts - Glassblower
Position: Glassblower
Department: Art and Design
Reports to: Art Director
Job Summary:
The Glassblower is responsible for creating unique, high-quality glass artworks through the art of glassblowing. This role requires a skilled artisan with a deep understanding of glass properties, techniques, and safety procedures. The Glassblower will work in a studio environment, collaborating with other artisans and artists to design and produce glass pieces that meet artistic and client specifications.
Responsibilities:
1. Execute glassblowing techniques such as gathering, blowing, shaping, and sculpting molten glass into various forms.
2. Collaborate with artists, designers, and clients to develop and refine glassblowing concepts and designs.
3. Operate and maintain glassblowing equipment, including furnaces, blowpipes, hand tools, and kilns.
4. Ensure adherence to safety protocols and guidelines to minimize the risk of accidents or injuries.
5. Maintain a clean and organized work area, including the proper storage and handling of glass materials and tools.
6. Perform routine maintenance on glassblowing equipment to ensure optimal functionality.
7. Monitor and control the temperature and humidity levels within the glassblowing studio to maintain ideal working conditions.
8. Stay informed about current trends and innovations in glassblowing techniques, materials, and artistic styles.
9. Participate in artistic and design discussions to contribute ideas and insights for glassblowing projects.
10. Collaborate with other artisans, technicians, and artists to complete larger-scale glass installations or projects.
11. Document and record the creative process, materials used, and techniques employed for future reference.
Qualifications:
1. Proven experience as a Glassblower or similar role within the fine arts industry.
2. In-depth knowledge of glass properties, characteristics, and behavior during the glassblowing process.
3. Proficiency in executing various glassblowing techniques, including gathering, blowing, shaping, and sculpting.
4. Strong artistic and aesthetic sense with the ability to interpret and translate artistic concepts and designs into glass forms.
5. Familiarity with different types of glass, including colored glass, stained glass, and glass mixes.
6. Ability to operate and maintain glassblowing equipment, such as furnaces, blowpipes, hand tools, and kilns.
7. Excellent attention to detail and manual dexterity to manipulate molten glass effectively.
8. Knowledge of safety procedures and guidelines for working with hot glass to ensure personal and team safety.
9. Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and effectively communicate with artists, designers, and clients.
10. Strong organizational and time-management skills to meet project deadlines.
11. Continuous learning mindset and willingness to stay updated with current trends and innovations in glassblowing.
Note: This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the Glassblower position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with the role.