University of Sunderland graduate scoops major national glass award
A university of Sunderland graduate has won a major national glass award as five other students receive further recognition.
The Contemporary Glass Society has announced the winners of its 2026 Glass Sellers' Graduate Prize, with university graduate Sean Barnes taking the top award.
The awards offer a celebration of Sunderland's glassmaking talent following the closure of the National Glass Centre (NGC) in July and highlight the importance of securing a future for the city's internationally-recognised glass heritage.
Sean was recognised for his experimental work exploring the relationship between molten glass and volcanic processes.
Speaking about his prize, Sean, from Billingham, said, “I am incredibly grateful to receive this award.
“It is difficult to put into words how much it means to have the work recognised in this way, particularly after a year that has involved so much uncertainty, experimentation and self-doubt.”
Sean’s fellow University of Sunderland graduates Hannah Masi and Suzie Smith were highly commended, while Yanjie Gao, Penny Riley-Smith and Annie Flora James received commended recognition.
Sean continued: “My interest in glass and glassmaking started when my grandad took me to the NGC and we watched a glassblowing demonstration.
“It took me a while to get a place studying glass at the University of Sunderland but I finally arrived at the NGC after a Princes Trust enterprise course.
“The NGC was a special place to me, and the team there – which I saw myself part of – was amazing.
“I hope we can get back together and create the same atmosphere and fellowship when Glassworks opens.”
Nick Malyan, chief executive of Sunderland Culture, said: "These awards demonstrate that Sunderland's glassmaking tradition is very much alive, with extraordinary talent continuing to emerge from our city.
“The closure of NGC was a significant moment for our glass community but we must now look forward and ensure that the skills, knowledge and creativity built up over generations have a future.
"Glassworks represents an important opportunity to create a new home for glassmaking, supporting artists, developing new talent and ensuring Sunderland continues to be recognised as a centre for contemporary glass in the UK.
“The Contemporary Glass Society's recognition of Sunderland's graduates provides a powerful reminder of what can be achieved by continuing to invest in the city's artists, makers and creative industries.”