Top 10 Questions for Kiln Formed Glass Artist Interview

1. Describe the process of creating a slumped glass piece.

– Start with a sheet of glass and cut it to the desired size. – Place the glass in a kiln and heat it to the annealing point. – Use a mold or slumping form to shape the glass. – Cool the glass slowly in the kiln to prevent cracking.

2. What are the different types of kiln firing schedules?

Annealing

• Slowly cooling glass to relieve internal stresses.
• Prevents the glass from cracking or shattering.

Fusing

• Heating glass to a high temperature where it melts and bonds together.
• Used to create fused glass pieces.

Slumping

• Heating glass to a temperature where it becomes pliable and can be shaped.
• Used to create curved or three-dimensional glass pieces.

3. How do you troubleshoot a kiln that is not heating evenly?

– Check the kiln elements for damage or loose connections. – Ensure the kiln door is closed properly and sealing tightly. – Adjust the kiln shelves or rack to ensure even heat distribution. – Calibrate the kiln using a thermocouple or pyrometer.

4. What are the safety precautions you take when working with kiln formed glass?

• Wear safety glasses and gloves.
• Use a kiln with proper ventilation.
• Handle hot glass with care using tongs or heat-resistant gloves.
• Be aware of sharp edges and broken glass.
• Follow all manufacturer’s instructions for kiln operation.

5. How do you calculate the firing schedule for a specific type of glass?

• Consider the type of glass (e.g., COE).
• Determine the desired firing temperature and hold time.
• Use a firing schedule calculator or consult manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Adjust the schedule based on the size and thickness of the glass piece.

6. What are the different techniques for coloring kiln formed glass?

• Using colored glass sheets or frit.
• Applying glass paint or stains.
• Incorporating metal oxides or other colorants.
• Using dichroic glass or iridescent films.

7. How do you create a textured surface on kiln formed glass?

• Using molds or slumping forms with textures.
• Applying crushed glass or frit to the glass surface.
• Carving or etching the glass after firing.
• Using sandblasting or acid etching techniques.

8. What are the common defects that can occur in kiln formed glass?

• Bubbles or inclusions.
• Cracking or chipping.
• Uneven coloring or firing.
• Surface imperfections or scratches.
• Deformation or warping.

9. How do you repair a broken kiln formed glass piece?

– Assess the damage and determine if it can be repaired. – Clean the broken edges and apply a glass adhesive. – Carefully reassemble the pieces and use clamps or weights to hold them together. – Fire the repaired piece to fuse the adhesive and strengthen the joint.

10. What are the current trends and innovations in kiln formed glass art?

• Digital printing on glass.
• 3D printing with glass.
• Incorporating electronics and LEDs into glass pieces.
• Using sustainable and environmentally friendly glass materials.
• Exploring new techniques for creating complex and unique glass forms.

A Kiln Formed Glass Artist is an experienced professional responsible for creating unique artistic glass pieces using kiln-forming techniques.

1. Concept Development and Design

Collaborate with designers, clients, and other artists to develop concepts and designs for glass pieces.

• Sketch and create prototypes to visualize and refine ideas.
• Study glass properties, colors, and textures to determine the best materials and techniques for each design.

2. Glass Preparation and Manipulation

Prepare and manipulate glass sheets using various techniques, including cutting, grinding, and fusing.

• Operate and maintain glass kilns and other equipment safely and efficiently.
• Control temperature, time, and other parameters during firing to achieve desired glass effects.

3. Surface Decoration and Embellishment

Apply glazes, enamels, or other decorative materials to glass surfaces.

• Use painting, etching, or sandblasting techniques to create patterns, designs, or textures.
• Incorporate metal, wood, or other elements into glass pieces to enhance their visual appeal and functionality.

4. Quality Control and Finishing

Inspect and evaluate finished glass pieces to ensure they meet quality standards.

• Clean and polish glass surfaces to achieve a polished and professional appearance.
• Pack and ship completed pieces securely to clients or galleries.

To ace an interview for a Kiln Formed Glass Artist position, consider the following tips and hacks:

1. Portfolio Preparation

Prepare a visually stunning portfolio that showcases your best work and demonstrates your technical skills and artistic vision.

• Include high-quality photographs or digital images of your glass pieces in various stages of completion.
• Provide accurate descriptions of the techniques, materials, and design concepts behind each piece.

2. Research the Company and Industry

Research the company’s history, culture, and product line to demonstrate your interest and understanding of their business.

• Learn about recent trends and advancements in kiln-formed glass art to show your passion for the field.
• Prepare questions that show your curiosity and desire to contribute to the company’s growth.

3. Emphasize Technical Proficiency

Highlight your technical skills and experience in kiln-forming techniques, glass manipulation, and surface decoration.

• Describe specific projects where you successfully applied your knowledge and skills to create unique glass pieces.
• Quantify your accomplishments, such as the number of pieces produced or the size of installations you worked on.

4. Showcase Artistic Vision and Creativity

Discuss your artistic vision and how it influences your designs for kiln-formed glass pieces.

• Explain your thought process and inspiration behind specific pieces or collections.
• Emphasize your ability to translate concepts into visually stunning and functional glass art.