NEWS & EVENTS
Stay Updated with what’s happening in the World of Glass
The Glass Society is a vibrant community that celebrates the diverse interests of its members. Our mission is to stimulate, educate, and entertain through a dynamic programme of publications, events, and activities. While many of our members are collectors, our ranks also include dealers, auctioneers, curators, and academics. Often, our members are leading experts in their chosen areas of interest. Together, and with the benefit of modern technology, we exchange ideas and discuss glass-related topics with passion and enthusiasm. One of the greatest rewards of being part of the Society is the chance to build real connections – forming friendships and professional relationships that make your appreciation of glass even more meaningful.
TALKS AND LECTURES
We host approximately six talks annually, offering a mix of in-person and Zoom events to cater to a wide audience. These talks cover an array of topics related to glass—its history, manufacture, patronage, and uses—spanning from antiquity to contemporary studio glass. Subjects have ranged from ancient Egypt and Rome to the medieval Old World and the global glass scene of today.
Our in-person talks are traditionally held at the Art Workers’ Guild in central London. The highlight of our calendar is the Annual Robert Charleston Lecture, delivered mid-year by a renowned glass expert. This lecture honours Robert Charleston, former Keeper of Ceramics at the Victoria & Albert Museum and Chairman of The Glass Circle.
EVENTS AND VISITS
The Society organizes a variety of events across Britain, including museum tours, private collection visits, and study days at studio workshops. Overseas trips, such as the recent visit to Germany in Autumn 2024, continue a tradition of exploring glass heritage around the world, following previous trips to Italy, France, Spain, Ireland, Sweden, Holland, Eastern Europe, and the United States.
GET INVOLVED
As a member-driven organization, we encourage active participation. Whether by attending events, contributing ideas, or assisting with the administration of the Society, your involvement is key to our success.
Events
past events
FREE ZOOM TALK
Talents hidden in plain sight: fresh observations of the art of Thomas (1747-1826) and Mary Beilby (1749-1797)
Hosted by Simon Cottle
7pm GMT, Thursday 11 December 2025
FREE ZOOM TALK
A Century in Glass:
The Innovation of Art Deco
Hosted by Alex Froggatt
7pm BST, Thursday 9th Oct 2025
Read more
our forthcoming events
ZOOM TALK - SIMON COTTLE
A Clear Passion: Cecil Higgins and the Glass at The Higgins Museum, Bedford
DATE: Thursday 19th March 2026 – 7pm GMT
to follow the Annual General Meeting
LOCATION: ZOOM online
COST: Free for members
Zoom details will be sent out to members by email before the event or can be found below.
Picture credit: The Higgins Museum, A Tiffany Favrile glass vase, circa 1900
Zoom Details
Duration: 01:33:00
Share link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89512514986?pwd=QEVedj3dEaQUCSxyqSEtqaQKU9m23l.1
Passcode: 022403
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