Certainly, in addition
to the cognitive processes, glassblowing also involves a deep connection with
the material through perceptual stimuli. Glassblowers rely on their senses to
interact with the molten glass. Here's an exploration of the perceptual stimuli
provided by the material.
Visual Perception
Stimuli: The vibrant, translucent nature of molten glass provides a visually
stimulating experience. Glassblowers observe the glass's colour, texture, and
transparency, allowing them to monitor its temperature and consistency.
Tactile Perception
Stimuli: The tactile aspect of glassblowing involves the physical sensation of
manipulating the hot glass. Glassblowers can feel the molten glass's
temperature, viscosity, and weight through the blowpipe or punty. They use
touch to gauge the glass's malleability.
Auditory Perception
Stimuli: Glassblowing produces distinctive sounds that provide valuable feedback.
The glassblower listens for specific cues, such as the crackling of the glass
when it's too cool, or the hissing sound when air is blown into the piece. These
auditory signals help in monitoring the process.
Olfactory Perception
Stimuli: The glassblowing studio has a unique smell due to the materials and
equipment used. Glassblowers can detect changes in the process by the distinct
odours produced, such as the smell of burning wood when wooden blocks are used
for shaping.
Thermal Perception
Stimuli: Glassblowers can sense the temperature of the glass through the heat
radiating from it. They must adapt to the changing temperature as the glass
cools and solidifies, avoiding burns while working with the hot material.
Kinesthetic Perception
Stimuli: Glassblowing involves precise movements, and glassblowers rely on their
kinesthetic sense to control the tools and their own body position. This
includes the sense of balance and muscle memory when transferring the glass to
a punty for example.