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Youth Programs

SiO2 Youth Programs at Pittsburgh Class Center

SiO2 is the chemical formula for glass and the name of our glass art program designed for young people. SiO2 shatters the conventional notion that glass art is only for adults. The program’s hands-on courses are structured specifically for young people and are taught in one of the United States’ premier glass facilities. All four of our state-of-the-art studios are open for young adults to explore their creative potential and embark on an education in glass.

SiO2 students not only create glass art and learn the scientific principles of glass, they experience valuable life lessons through studio practice. Successful studio glass pieces often cannot be produced by one person alone, so while learning and creating, students are shown the fundamental significance of teamwork, discipline, communication, and mutual respect. Such experiences, in turn, help students understand the nature of leadership and ultimately foster a sense of achievement.

SiO2 Youth Arts at Pittsburgh Glass Center logo

SiO2 Impacts Academic Careers

To date, we have taught art glass techniques and effective studio practices to well over 700 middle- and high school students from all over the Greater Pittsburgh region, representing many of the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

Many PGC students have received special awards and recognition from their schools in praise of their commitment, creativity, and dedication. Moreover, more than a few have gone on to receive art scholarships from postsecondary institutions, such as Alfred University, Bowling Green, Carnegie Mellon University, Cleveland Institute of Art, Detroit’s College for Creative Studies, Harvard University, Kent State University, Rhode Island School of Design, and Tyler School of Art.

Scholarships

We offer scholarships to all students. No previous glass or art experience is required. Our only requirements are enthusiasm, curiosity, and an eagerness to learn. Apply Here

Full Day "MOLTN" Classes

Our introductory workshops are a great way to try glass and make something unique. Join us these workshops just for teens—paperweights, magnets, and pet portraits! TEENS ONLY!

Teens Only Workshops

Workshops for young people to try different glassmaking techniques. Spend a few hours at PGC working with all things hot. At high temperatures, glass can be manipulated in many ways. You’ll learn three different glassmaking techniques: glassblowing at a 2,200-degree furnace, flameworking at the torch, and fusing in the kiln. Grades 6–12. No experience necessary.

Middle School After School Program

Mixed and Mashed Up is a hands-on, after-school program specifically for students in grades 6–8. Classes meet after school once a week for 12 weeks. Spend four weeks in three different studios learning glassblowing, flameworking, and kilnforming.

SiO2 High School Programs

Students in grades 9–12 work primarily in three of our state-of-the-art studios learning glassblowing, flameworking, and kilnforming. Advanced glassblowing and flameworking courses are also available for students who have completed beginner instruction. Beginner classes meet after school once a week for 10 weeks. Advanced Classes meet after school for 12 weeks. Apply for a scholarship here.

Make-It-Now Workshops

Try glassmaking in 15 minutes or less. PGC’s Make-It-Now workshops are a fun family activity and an opportunity to try glassmaking in 15 minutes or less. No experience is necessary. Ages 5+.

Teen Boot Camp

This one-week summer program introduces the science and art of glass to teens. It gives students the rare hands-on experience of learning the many facets of glass in one of the top facilities in the country. Sessions include glassblowing, flameworking, kilnforming, and coldworking. Register for one or two weeks!

Teen Boot Camp Policies

2-Hour Workshops

Our 2-hour introductory workshops are a great way to sample many different glass processes and techniques. We welcome students at least 14 and up in the Kiln, Flame, and Cold shop. An adult must accompany children 12–14 years old in our Hot shop.