The Social Networking Project consists of glass sculpture pieces created through live demonstrations, fostering community collaboration and meaningful connections. Using flameworking techniques with borosilicate rods, I begin by establishing a sturdy base structure. Precut glass rods of various sizes and lengths are made available to participants, who, after signing a safety waiver, can choose a piece to contribute.

Wearing safety glasses, participants are invited to position their chosen rods on the structure as they see fit. I then carefully fuse the glass rods to the base, with each participant contributing within approximately three minutes. During this interactive art-making experience, I engage with the community, learning their names, discussing their familiarity with glass or art, and sharing in the joy they experience by contributing to this collective artwork.

Upon completion, I offer to capture a Polaroid picture of each participant next to the finished piece, documenting the shared experience. This approach to flameworking, aptly named Networking, reflects the essence of the Social Networking Project—where art is not only created but relationships are forged in a timeless, hands-on manner.