International Festival of Glass

Past exhibitions

2015 British Glass Biennale

2015 British Glass BiennaleRead more

Latest

Kārlis Bogustovs, skateboarding and the Glass Piano

Marvel at this remarkable young Latvian as he not only brings his famous glass piano to the Festival but shows you how to make and use a glass skateboard ramp.
Explore the magical world of Pinhole Photography

Come and experience the captivating art and science of pinhole photography. This is the simplest way to take a photo using a pinhole instead of an optical lens in the simplest of cameras. Take pinhole photos around the site and develop them yourself in the amazing Phenomera mobile darkroom/camera obscura.
The UK's Last Glass Eyemaker to appear at the Festival

In 2006 the Festival featured Germany’s most renowned glass eye maker, Walter Hellbach. For 2017 we bring you the last glass eyemaker working in the UK. Marvel at the skill and lifelike eyes made by Jost Haas - demonstrations on Sunday and Monday.
Roots & Sky: Opportunities and Challenges for the Rooftop Gardener

One-day Conference organised by Ruskin Mill Land Trust and The Field Centre and Argent College with contributions from Coventry University & other key speakers. The conference will be hosted at Argent College. Argent College, in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham, has a newly established rooftop micro-farm and organic and biodynamic café and bakery.

Fused Glass Workshops with Jacqueline Cooley - Places available

A choice of workshops and drop in sessions with Jacqueline Cooley each day.
Mosaic Workshop with Caroline Jariwala - Places available

Help create a new mosaic for the Webb Corbett Visitor Centre with fabulous mosaic artist Caroline Jariwala during the International Festival of Glass. The workshops run each day and are free but booking ahead is recommended.
Glass Bunting Galore!

A brilliant mass participation project by fused glass artists from around the world and displayed in Amblecote Wordsley Methodist Church. Join in and let's help set a world record!
Hive Cafe and Bakery Opens!

The Hive Cafe and Bakery is now open! Providing a warm welcome in the heart of Birmingham's famous Jewellery Quarter, with delicious pastries, cake, bread and meals. Come and visit us. Try our coffee!
Plan your visit

The International Festival of Glass takes place at venues across the Stourbridge Glass Quarter. Entry to most Festival venues is free, however some activities may incur a small charge. A Festival Pass is required for entry to Ruskin Glass Centre over the four days. A Festival Pass allows entry to lectures, demonstrations, the British Glass Biennale and other exhibitions on site, and some performances.
British Glass Biennale 2017

The flagship British Glass Biennale 2017 exhibition featuring work by 63 artists.
Why we exist
Ruskin Glass Centre Lecture Programme

A brief synopsis of the fantastic and informative array of speakers at this year's Festival, with presentations ranging from dealing with nuclear waste to the glass restorer by Royal appointment to the Queen. More information is in the Festival Programme.
Demonstrations and Open Studios

International Festival of Glass Demonstrations and Open Studios
WORLD PREMIERE EVENT Vitrescence: Becoming Glass by Andy Garbi - Tickets available

Standing 100ft high, the 18th Century Redhouse ‘Glass Cone’ chimney is the last of its kind in Europe. Taking place within its cathedral-like interior, multi award-winning singer, composer and sound artist Andy Garbi will be staging a site-specific audiovisual event that celebrates and explores the nature of glass.