Crucible member and volunteer Robert Graf is a self-identified problem solver. He has taken classes in fourteen of our nineteen departments since 2014, including Blacksmithing, Glass Flameworking, Machine Shop, and his personal favorite, Neon & Light. For Robert, every failed project is an opportunity to improve his skills.
When Abisola Coretta began her Ph.D. program, she had never heard of The Crucible. “Speaking with a professor at Stanford, they mentioned The Crucible as being a really cool maker space, so I came on a tour.” During her first visit, Abisola spent more than two hours speaking with our faculty about their process, our mission, and The Crucible’s influence in the Bay Area maker community.
Former faculty Etai Rahmil launched a Kickstarter for Pure Over, an all-glass pour-over coffee maker, that will support The Crucible as the company grows.
The Crucible is announcing a pilot program of day-time youth classes, so young people can access quality, hands-on instruction during this difficult time.
Masks. They’re on everybody’s minds (and faces) these days and they aren’t going anywhere for a while. A recent study by The Lancet found that wearing a mask reduces your risk of infection from 17.4% to just 3.1%. In reopening The Crucible, we’ve instituted a number of new health and safety policies, including mandatory masks wearing in the studio.
Two years after taking his first Crucible class, Simha Furaha stepped into the Hot Shop and fell in love with Glass Blowing. From 2018-19, he was a Fuego Youth Leader in that department, helping summer camp instructors teach youth students while also working on his craft with a mentor.
We are forging ahead with reopening and need your support to continue. Become a monthly donor and receive an exclusive forged gift!
Like most things, we weren’t sure our Fuego Youth Leadership Program would run this summer. But with modifications to shelter-in-place orders, the introduction of new health and safety guidelines in our studio, and funding from our program sponsors, we’re excited to announce we’re moving forward with a streamlined version.
This past week, Alameda county extended its shelter-in-place order through May 31, meaning The Crucible will remain closed for at least another month. While we miss gathering with our creative community more than anything, there has been one benefit to our studio closure.
Art, making, and creativity have sown to be invaluable resources. Studies show that being creative—no matter your skill level—can improve your mood, relieve stress and anxiety, and influence brain connections. Here's your guide to a creative shelter-in-place.