Artist Talk and Proposal with 2026 Studio Resident James Akers

Artist James Akers discusses his ongoing UrbanGlass residency, where he is collaborating with professional glassblowers to create new colors of neon tubing using custom phosphor blends. The project explores the possibilities of colored light while inviting the public into the creative process.

During the talk, Akers will introduce a new participatory initiative that allows visitors to submit designs using the project's emerging color palette. Selected designs may be realized as finished works, with contributors sharing ownership. The event also marks the unveiling of both a physical and online design drop box, offering multiple ways for the public to engage with the project.