An introduction to traditional stained glass painting with Zoe Boulton
Sunday 12th October 2025
11am-3pm | Adult workshop 16 + | Free
Please note that, due to the nature of the materials, this course is not suitable for anyone who’s pregnant or breast feeding.
This workshop is a part of Swansea Council’s citywide art celebration Swansea Arts Weekend. Mission Gallery invites you to celebrate all things craft- whether this is experimenting with heritage craft skills or new processes, we hope you enjoy!
*Booking is through an external website Visit Swansea Bay. As part of Swansea Arts Weekend. Please use the link provided below to secure your space. Please note we have no access to this booking system so are unable to assist requests, for enquiries about availability please contact Visit Swansea Bay.
Artist Bio:
As a traditionally trained stained glass artist, Zoe Boulton focuses on techniques and materials that allow for a wide range of both historical and contemporary applications.
Zoe’s professional practice encompasses conservation and restoration work, decorative glazing for film and television production and teaching from beginner to postgraduate level.
In her personal practice, Zoe creates works that explore imagery from medieval folklore and literature. She incorporates a broad range of techniques including gilding and acid etching to produce autonomous works that harness the unique material qualities of glass.
Workshop summary:
This workshop provides an introduction to the basics of traditional glass painting, including mixing paint, and exploring different brushes, tools and techniques to achieve a variety of finishes.
With historical references from multiple eras of stained glass as inspiration, you will have the opportunity to experience the delicacy of glass paint, and learn how to manipulate it, to achieve a selection of decorative pieces.
At the end of the session, your pieces will be taken away and fired in a kiln.
They will finish in a lead frame, with loops for hanging. Pieces will be available for collection from the Mission gallery the following weekend.
Day layout:
The workshop will begin with an introduction to the day and the health and safety requirements.
All participants will need to come wearing covered footwear, due to the use of glass.
Everyone will be provided with the appropriate PPE, including aprons to protect clothing, masks to protect from the glass paint when it is in it’s dry stage. Nitrile gloves will be available for those that wish to use them.
Everyone will have a variety of pre-cut glass, and all necessary tools will be provided for the session.
Using historical references from stained glass windows, a demonstration of how to mix the pigment, and short description on the types of tools and brushes and how to use them will given.
Everyone will then be shown how to apply the base layer of paint, along with any additional layers and techniques used to achieve a decorative design.
After the initial presentation there will be the opportunity for a short break.
We will then begin mixing the pigment and start painting. One on one assistance and additional demonstrations will be provided as required, and the remainder of the session will be spent experimenting to create finished pieces.
At the end of the session everyone’s work will be collected and kiln fired overnight.
The works will be returned, with a lead surround and loops for hanging. These will be delivered to the Mission gallery for collection from the following weekend.
Swansea Arts Weekend is a FREE vibrant two-day celebration of creativity, culture, and community, set in the heart of Swansea City Centre.Taking place on Saturday October 11th 10am – 10pm and Sunday 12th 10am – 8pm, the festival will transform the city into a hub of inspiration, bringing together music, visual arts, and live performance for all to enjoy.
Across the weekend, visitors can explore a dynamic mix of programming designed for both adults and families. Highlights include:
Live Music & Performance – from local talent to special guest acts, filling venues and open-air spaces with sound and energy.
Exhibitions & Installations – showcasing the work of Swansea’s thriving creative community alongside national and international artists.
Workshops & Interactive Experiences – hands-on opportunities for all ages to get creative, learn new skills, and take part in unique artistic activities.
Street Entertainment & Pop-Up Events – surprising moments of performance and play spread throughout the city centre.
Industry talks – Insightful sessions with some of Wales’ top talents.
With galleries, event spaces, theatres, and outdoor venues all taking part, Swansea Arts Weekend is more than just an arts festival – it’s a chance to celebrate creativity, connect with the community, and discover something new at every turn.
Whether you’re a lifelong arts lover or simply looking for a fun day out, Swansea Arts Weekend promises inspiration, entertainment, and unforgettable experiences for everyone.
High quality artist led workshops are at the heart of what we do here at Mission Gallery. Every ticket purchase contributes towards our Outreach Programme and supports fair compensation for our talented artists.
Due to our venue’s capacity, spaces are limited. If you book onto one of our workshops we would ask you to honour your commitment to attend.
We aim for our workshops to be as accessible as possible, but would ask that you make a donation on the day if you can. Please consider contributing if you are able to support the future workshop and education programmes at Mission Gallery.
For further information please contact
Safiyyah Altaf, Outreach Creative: Outreach@missiongallery.co.uk or 01792652016
Megan Leigh, Learning & Engagement Coordinator, on 01792 652016 or email megan@missiongallery.co.uk
Materials are provided, limited places, booking is essential. Please inform us of any access requirements, allergies or medical conditions.
Access is by one-step entry from pavement level through our main entrance.
The workshops will take place in the gallery and education space located on the first floor of the gallery.
Due to building limitations access to the first floor education space is via steep stairs.
Staff are on hand to provide assistance if needed.
