Dr. Han-Mei Chen Leads Glass Mosaic Workshops at the 2024 ESRC Festival of Social Science

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Composite of two pictures. On the left a close up of a persons hands arranging rectangles of stained into an abstract pattern. On the right the finished piece of stained glass prior to firing.

In October 2024, Dr. Han-Mei Chen led two successful glass mosaic craft workshops, using colourful recycled glass materials, as part of the 2024 national ESRC Festival of Social Science (#ESRCFestival). The event offered a unique opportunity for the public to engage in sustainable art practices while exploring the impact of upcycling on both personal well-being and the environment.

Titled “Crafting a Sustainable Future: Upcycling Workshops for Glass Mosaic Art and Enhanced Wellbeing”, the workshops were supported by the ESRC Festival of Social Science and aimed to raise awareness of the life cycle of glass bottles. Participants learned how simple glass upcycling activities could help reduce carbon footprints and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Throughout the sessions, Dr. Chen, along with community artist Claire (#The Unlocked Collective), guided attendees through the process of creating glass mosaic art. They emphasised creativity, sustainability, and mindfulness, ensuring that each participant could enjoy a hands-on, relaxing experience while exploring the artistic potential of recycled materials.

A group of scouts holding up the pieces of stained glass they made in the workshop. On the right is an image of the workshop taking place, with scouts sitting around a U shaped table and a woman speaking to them.

Positive feedback from participants highlighted the personal benefits of the workshops:

  • “Relaxing… Enjoyed the course very much.”
  • “Really enjoyed today. Inspires me to try to do some at home.”
  • “Really enjoyable session with lovely, friendly tutors.”
  • “I had a wonderful, relaxing class and learned how to mosaic. I am very inspired to take up craft more. Fantastic tutors.”

Examples of different pieces of stained glass made during the workshop.

These responses reflect the therapeutic value of the workshops, with many participants noting how the creative process helped them relax, focus, and express themselves through art.

The event underscored the importance of sustainable practices, demonstrating how art and craft can play a key role in promoting both environmental consciousness and personal well-being.

Examples of different pieces of stained glass made during the workshop.