Amber Cowan’s journey since graduating from SU's hot glass programme in 2004 is inspiring. Her sculptures grace galleries and museums nationwide; they’ve even been recognised by the country’s premier newspaper The New York Times.

Cowan's sculptures might appear conjured from thin air, but her secret lies in using recycled vintage glass. She scours old factories and thrift stores for materials, sometimes including family heirlooms, to preserve their history in her sculptures.

Recently, Cowan returned to SU's campus to share her experiences with current students.

“The glass programme is why I went to SU,” she says. “I have seen many of my colleagues I graduated with going on to pursue careers and start their own studios. If you get out there, meet many people and reach for the opportunities around you, it will broaden your worldview.”

Amber Cowan

(Class of 2004)