Shaping Futures: Empowering Students Through the Big Picture Learning Glassblowing Internship
Schack Art Center Partners with Heritage High School:
Empowering Students Through Glassblowing Internships
Schack Art Center has partnered with Heritage High School to offer a unique internship that nurtures students' artistic talents while preparing them for the future. As part of the school’s Big Picture Learning model, the program gives students the chance to learn glassblowing, gain mentorship, and develop life skills for their future careers.
The video below was shown at Schack Art Center’s Annual D’Harts Auction to highlight the partnership with Heritage High School through the glassblowing internship program. The event supports Schack Art Center’s mission to provide inclusive, accessible arts programming that fosters creativity, engages the community, and enriches lives through the transformative power of the arts. The video featured students working in the studio, learning glassblowing, and developing valuable skills like problem-solving and patience. It emphasized the impact of the Big Picture Learning model, showcasing how real-world internships boost student engagement and creativity. Testimonials from students and instructors alike celebrated the program’s success and called for continued community support to expand educational opportunities.
The Glassblowing Internship Program
The Big Picture Learning model centers on internships that immerse students in professional environments, making their education more relevant and engaging. At Schack Art Center, students gain hands-on experience in glassblowing, combining creativity with technical precision. They learn the creative process, contribute to meaningful projects, and develop both artistic and professional skills.
As a glassblowing instructor, I guide students through the craft, covering everything from shaping molten glass to technical details like temperature control. Each lesson is designed to be both artistic and educational, encouraging students to experiment with techniques, build patience, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills—valuable assets for any career.
Encouraging Creativity and Ownership
One of the most fulfilling aspects of the program is seeing students take ownership of their projects. Each student creates a unique piece of art, applying their knowledge and creativity, and experimenting with new techniques. I provide guidance and constructive feedback, but the focus is on fostering independence. Students are encouraged to explore their boundaries, push past challenges, and discover their own style, building both technical skills and confidence.
Students are also tasked with projects that contribute to Schack Art Center. These pieces, whether displayed, sold, or used in events, help students see the tangible impact of their work. This reinforces their learning and instills a sense of pride in their contributions, teaching them the value of responsibility, collaboration, and the broader impact of their creativity.
Building a Bright Future
This internship is about more than teaching glassblowing; it’s a mentorship that equips students with essential skills for personal and professional growth. I help students develop a well-rounded skill set that blends creativity with critical thinking and problem-solving, preparing them for success in various fields, from the arts to technology and business.
The real-world experience also helps students discover their passions and unlock potential they might not have realized. The freedom to explore creative ideas in a hands-on environment boosts both their technical skills and confidence. The internship lays the foundation for their future careers, instilling perseverance, teamwork, and adaptability—values that will help them tackle any challenge ahead.
Learn more about the Heritage Big Picture Learning Partnership Programs here.
Support Schack Art Center here.
