A Life Molded by Glass

A Life Molded by Glass

Glassblowing, and glass, in general, has been a major part of my life. I was first introduced to glassblowing when I was a child, brought along by my mother to her glass shop at the University of Pennsylvania Chemistry Department. It was a scary experience at first, as I was taught that fire is dangerous and you should always be cautious around it. So, it was quite a shock when my mom showed me how she put her hand inches next to a torch spewing white-white hot fire. But, as I grew more accustomed to her work, I began to see the art and skill that is part of glassblowing. While she is not an "artistic" glassblower, (as in those who design glass for consumer purchase [she makes glassware for chemistry students]), there is still a certain feel that the work requires. I am grateful that she taught me basic glassblowing skills and continues to teach me new techniques every summer. Attached is a video depicting her teaching glassblowing to undergraduate and graduate University of Pennsylvania Chemistry students. 



It is interesting to note that, from a social standpoint, my mom is one of 17 female research glassblowers in the United States. There are slightly less than 300 female glassblowers (across all fields). As is the case with many STEM-oriented fields, it seems like glassblowing is predominantly male-oriented.

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