In the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, where creativity thrives in every corner, there exists a haven for glass enthusiasts and art lovers alike. The Rural Modern Glass Studio (RMGS) stands as a testament to the fusion of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design. As India's first art-glass studio, RMGS has been at the forefront of exploring the captivating world of glass blowing (the process of inflating molten glass into a bubble) and other glass production techniques. With a vision to introduce glass as a medium of expression to the Indian design community, this studio has become a hub of innovation, collaboration, and artistic exploration.
At the heart of RMGS lies the combined skillfulness of two visionary individuals, Arjun Rathi and Ismail Plumber. Arjun Rathi, a Mumbai-based architect, brings his expertise in lighting design to the studio. Through his multidisciplinary studio, Arjun Rathi Design, he interprets space through the lens of lighting, creating fixtures and installations that captivate the imagination. Ismail Plumber, a Mumbai-based glass artist and architectural glass designer, runs Studio Golden Glass, a commercial glass company. With three decades of experience in commercial glass and formal training in blown glass in Turkey, Ismail explores his passion for glass art through fused and cast glass works.
RMGS takes pride in having international glassworking artists as their resident artists, who bring their unique perspectives and techniques to the studio. One such artist is Matthew Piepenbrok from Florida, whose belief in the artist as an explorer and communicator shines through his creations. Jeremiah Jacobs, also from Florida, infuses humor and adventure into his art, playing with shape, form, color, and pattern. Anjali Singh from Chicago discovered her passion for glass immediately upon encountering the medium, focusing on honing her technical skills in glass blowing. Brent Sheehan from California shares his love for glassworking by imparting his knowledge and experience to enthusiasts in different cities, mastering various techniques such as California-style torch work, Swedish techniques, and hot glass sculpting.
RMGS offers a range of workshops that cater to both beginners and advanced glassworkers. Each workshop begins with a guided tour of the studio. They provide exciting experiences and opportunities to create unique glass art pieces. Let's explore some of the workshops offered:
Paperweight Making:
Participants choose their colors, experience marvering, and use shaping tools to craft a one-of-a-kind paperweight. The duration of this workshop is approximately 20-30 minutes.
Flower Making:
Participants select their preferred colors, engage in sculpting, and utilize sculpting tools to create a creative glass flower. The workshop lasts around 15-20 minutes.
Hand Casting:
Participants have the freedom to choose colors, experience the casting process, and craft a unique glass handcast. This workshop, recommended for ages 4-15, has a duration of 15-20 minutes.
Vases / Bowls / Glasses / Platter:
RMGS also provides workshops for creating more intricate glass art pieces, such as vases, bowls, glasses, and platters.
Click here to find out more about these workshops.
With its founders' expertise, the collaboration with resident artists, and the array of workshops offered, RMGS has become a melting pot of artistic expression and exploration. Whether you are a beginner looking to learn or an experienced glassworker requiring a space and adequate tools to hone your craft, this studio welcomes you. Discover the magic of glass blowing, unleash your creativity, and witness the transformation of molten glass into breathtaking works of art. RMGS is not just a studio; it is a gateway to a world where glass becomes a medium of boundless possibilities.
Follow Rural Modern Glass Studio here.
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