Kingston's Canberra Glassworks marks 20 years with a public open day

Canberra Glassworks marks 20 years on its Kingston site this month with a free public open day on Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. This milestone event honours two decades of creativity within the walls of one of Canberra's most iconic industrial landmarks, celebrating the evolution of the facility from a functional power utility to a world-class arts hub.

The hot shop will run continuous demonstrations and a silent auction of recent student work, with proceeds funding next year's residencies. This central space is the heart of the Glassworks, where visitors can observe the intense and delicate process of glassblowing firsthand as artists manipulate molten glass at extreme temperatures.

A retrospective exhibition tracing two decades of resident artists opens in the Engine Room next week and runs through August. This curated collection will showcase the depth of talent that has passed through the facility, highlighting how the studio has shaped the careers of some of the country's most prominent glass artists.

The Glassworks remains the only public-access hot glass studio of its kind in Australia. It offers a unique opportunity for both professional artists and the general public to engage with a medium that is often hidden away in private studios, keeping the heritage crafts alive in the ACT.

What to expect

Visitors attending the open day can expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with the heat and energy of the furnace. The continuous demonstrations mean there is no set schedule to follow, allowing guests to drop in at any time between 10 am and 4 pm to witness the molten glass being transformed into intricate art pieces.

The silent auction provides a rare chance for local collectors and art lovers to acquire unique pieces created by students. Because the proceeds go directly toward funding the residency program, every bid helps ensure that the Glassworks can continue to host and support emerging talent from across the region and beyond in the coming year.

Exploring the heritage site

Beyond the art itself, the open day offers a chance to explore the heritage-listed architecture of the former Kingston Power House. The building's high ceilings and industrial character provide a dramatic backdrop for the delicate glasswork, connecting the city’s early 20th-century industrial history with its modern status as a cultural capital.

While the hot shop is the main draw, the various galleries and the Engine Room within the complex will be accessible, offering a broader view of the technical skills required to maintain such a specialized facility. It is an ideal outing for families and those curious about the intersection of craft, heat, and history.

Getting there

Located in the heart of the Kingston Foreshore precinct, the Glassworks is easily accessible by public transport or via a short walk from the local café strip. Limited parking is available on-site, but visitors are encouraged to use the surrounding street parking or public transport options given the expected turnout for this special anniversary celebration.