General Overview

The Kolodium Glass residency offers an intensive, hands-on immersion into the specific technique of kiln-cast glass sculpture - melting glass shards into custom-made molds. Designed for international artists, the program provides space for artistic dialogue, professional guidance, and fully equipped facilities for experimentation.

The residency is open to both experienced glassmakers and complete beginners. Participants will experience the entire creation process under expert guidance, from the initial clay model to the final polished glass sculpture.

Program Structure & Timeline

The residency creates a comprehensive arc of learning and production:

  • Phase 1: Creation (Week 1): Creating the initial model and producing the negative mold.

  • Phase 2: Drying & Exploration (Weeks 2–3): While the mold dries (1–2 weeks depending on thickness), residents learn various glass processing techniques and gain knowledge of glass technology. Artists can explore the use of recycled glass and conduct small test experiments.

  • Phase 3: Firing (Week 4): Loading the kiln and firing. The artist is introduced to the principles of glass melting and the basic parameters for calculating melting and cooling curves.

  • Phase 4: Refining (Weeks 5–6): Once fired, the piece is finished using grinding, polishing, or sandblasting tools.

Studio & Equipment

Residents have access to a fully equipped workshop designed for the production of kiln-cast glass sculptures, slumped glass, and pâte de verre.

  • Kilns: Medium casting kiln (65x70x50 cm), large casting kiln (80x100x100 cm) and a large fusing kiln (90x180x50 cm) for glass slumping/layering.

  • Coldworking: A fully equipped grinding workshop, glass cutting machines, sandblasting equipment, and tools for glass bonding.

  • Documentation: We can professionally photograph the finished work in our studio at the end of the residency.

Duration Minimum 4 weeks, Recommended 5–6 weeks.

While the minimum duration is one month, we strongly recommend a stay of 5–6 weeks. This allows sufficient time for the mold to dry and for the detailed finishing work required after firing.

Fees & Inclusions Fee:

10,000 CZK (approx. €400) per week.

  • Materials: The price includes all necessary materials (including glass).

  • Guidance: Full professional mentorship throughout the technical process.

Accommodation & Support

  • Housing: Accommodation is not provided by the institution, but we can assist in finding suitable short-stay rentals or apartments in Prague.

  • Funding: We are happy to help artists explore external funding opportunities by providing invitation letters or necessary documents for scholarships and grants.

Expectations

We respect that artistic processes take time. There is no commercial pressure; however, if the program is followed, the residency typically results in a finished cast sculpture that the artist can take home.

Application

To apply or enquire, please contact us through info@kolodiumglass.cz.

Please send a brief description of your work and photographic documentation of past projects. We are happy to answer questions or create a customized residency plan that suits your needs.