Our second training phase was able to build on the first and learn from it. Of course, there were differences, because the trainees bring with them very different cultures and backgrounds. Also Mark Angus, as tutor, brought his own style of intensive 1×1 supervision, empathic as well as challenging. In addition, the training took place this year under lockdown-conditions. Instead of excursions, museum visits, lectures and discussions on site, we organized a weekly online lecture program with 15 international and regional glass makers, plus experts like Sven Hauschke, director of the European Museum for Modern Glass in Coburg. All speakers discussed their view of the ways glass develops in the future with the trainees, they gave advice and offered experience. This format brought amazing insights into different career paths, struggles, failures and successes!
The Bornholm business training also took place on-line in February 2021 and was very well received by all Trainees. The Internships have been delayed, but all Trainees have the opportunity to still take up this part of the offer.
This year’s Trainees worked wonderfully well in difficult times, co-operating as a team and planning continued close contact into the future.
As a management team reviewing applications, one point gave us a headache: some applicants are looking for artist residencies instead of a start-up program. Our focus, on the other hand, is on the craft in its connection to art and design as well as on career planning, taking roots, on regional and cross-border networks and the exchange of knowledge. And above all: on curiosity!
