Master Class | Sweetwater Center for the Arts | Community. Classes. Culture.

A unique learning opportunity

Sweetwater’s Master Class series are led by highly skilled, nationally renowned artists in varying fields. These intensive workshops are designed to create an immersive learning experience for students. Working closely alongside the instructor, students receive in-depth instruction, guidance, and feedback over the course of two-days. Previous Master Class instructors include Barbara Jaenicke, Jen Allen, Christine Swann, Kensuke Yamada, Samuel Dunson, Tim Horn, Bryn Perrott, and Deborah Schwartzkopf.

UPCOMING MASTER CLASSES

FALL MASTER CLASS

From Pencil to Panel: Stained Glass Sketches

Instructor: Kelsie McNair

Dates: Saturday, October 24, and Sunday, October 25, 2026
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

From Pencil to Panel is an introductory stained glass workshop designed for beginners interested in learning flat glass techniques. Students will start with paper and pencil, exploring shapes and linework to create original designs, then translate those sketches into glass.

Participants will learn foundational skills including glass cutting, grinding, copper foiling, soldering, and fi nishing. Throughout the workshop, we’ll also discuss basic stained glass design principles and examples from historical and contemporary work. By the end of the class, each student will complete and take home a fi nished stained glass object or small panel ready for display.

Interested in a more intimate experience with the artist? Reserve your place at the Master Class Dinner to connect with the artist and mingle with Sweetwater’s leadership and key members of our community. Limited number of seats available.

SAVE YOUR SEAT AT THE TABLE

Kelsie McNair is a Brooklyn-based stained glass artist, educator, and founder of Soft Shapes Studio. She specializes in contemporary stained glass and fused glass work that blends traditional techniques with playful, modern design. Kelsie teaches workshops and intensives nationally and works with private and commercial clients on custom glass installations.

Website: Kelsiemcnair.com
Instagram: @soft_shapes
TikTok: @softshapes

Artist statement

My work explores stained glass as both a functional craft and a contemporary art form. Drawing from architecture, color theory, and personal storytelling, I use traditional techniques to create playful, expressive objects that invite everyday interaction. Through teaching, I aim to make glass accessible, empowering students to see themselves as both designers and makers.