As part of the InterBridge project, we had the unique opportunity to introduce Czech glassmaking traditions to Czech and German students. Together with colleagues and our industrial partner, Preciosa, we organized an excursion to the Preciosa Lighting factory in Kamenický Šenov on Wednesday, December 11.
The excursion brought together approximately 50 seventh-grade students – half from the Elementary school U Lesa (which means „by the forest“) in Nový Bor, accompanied by teachers Renata Křížková and Krista Šrámková, and the other half from Christian-Weise-Gymnasium (Klimaschule) in Zittau (Christian Weise High School in Zittau), Germany, accompanied by teachers Markéta Barth and Katrin Heinze. I joined as an organizational escort and had the chance to observe how the students explored the fascinating world of glass.
Upon arrival in Kamenický Šenov, we divided into three groups to allow each to experience the factory's various departments in smaller numbers. The German group, which I joined later, was particularly lucky – during our visit to the glassworks, we witnessed the creation of a handmade artistic piece, the Medusa. It was fascinating to watch the glassmakers alternately blowing, shaping, and returning the molten glass to the furnace to achieve the perfect result. This moment was made even more special with an impromptu snack break under the workbench in the glass furnace area, where our group sat and watched with interest the master glassmakers in action.
During the tour, we also had the opportunity to visit the showroom, which showcased colorful lighting designs and demonstrated the perfect combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern lighting design. Additionally, we visited other areas where the students observed the entire production process – from preparing raw glass materials to blowing, shaping, and polishing the final products. Each part of the tour provided a different perspective on the world of glassmaking and left both students and their teachers inspired.
At the end of the excursion, both schools received two large bags filled with glass components – beads, glass stones, rosettes and other items – that the students will use to create their own artworks. These creations will be part of our next Czech-German traveling exhibition. With nothing holding back their creativity, we eagerly await the results and will definitely keep you updated!
After the tour, we took the German students to the Huť restaurant (Glass factory) in Nový Bor, where they could watch glassmakers at work during lunch. As expected, most German students enthusiastically ordered fried cheese – a classic Czech dish they had been looking forward to – while their teachers enjoyed vepřo knedlo zelo (roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut). This restaurant, connected to a glass workshop and museum, enhanced the experience of Czech glassmaking on a culinary level as well. After lunch, we continued to the glass museum located above the restaurant. Here, the students explored unique glass exhibits created during the latest International Glass Symposium (IGS 2024). The adjacent Novotný Glass gallery offered another stunning display of modern and classic artworks that captivated not only the students but also their teachers.
The final stop of our glassmaking journey was the Crystalex company store, where both students and teachers could purchase affordable utility glass items such as glasses, bowls, and teapots. Some brought home small souvenirs, while others picked gifts for loved ones. This stop perfectly concluded an inspiring and educational day, allowing all participants to take home a piece of Czech glass artistry.
Special thanks and congratulations to Preciosa Lighting
Preciosa Lighting recently shone at the prestigious Downtown Design Dubai 2024 exhibition, where it showcased the interactive Crystal Beat installation. Composed of 144 crystal cubes equipped with programmable LED chips, the installation synchronously pulses to the rhythm of music. This symphony of light, sound, and color was a brilliant demonstration of the fusion of technology and design. The installation also earned the prestigious Red Dot award, one of the most significant international design accolades, granted for exceptional design, innovation, and quality. Winning this award confirms that Preciosa Lighting is among the global leaders pushing the boundaries of technology, creativity, and art. It is precisely this connection between innovation and creativity that Preciosa brings to our project.
The excursion was made possible thanks to the generous support of Mrs. Karlová, CEO of Preciosa Group, and her team. Thanks to them, the students experienced something extraordinary that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. Preciosa has proven to be an ideal partner for our project, seamlessly connecting tradition, innovation, and education.
The excursion was an immense experience for everyone involved, and I’m proud to have played a role in organizing this event. I believe that activities like this not only enrich participants but also showcase the beauty and value of combining science and art – the core mission of the InterBridge project.
Hana Křížová
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