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R.J. Maupin is a PhD student in Design Studies at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, with a focus on design history, particularly in American glass production during the 19th and 20th centuries. Her research interests center on glassblowing and publicly enacted demonstrations within industrial and studio contexts, aiming to uncover the often-invisible contributions of glassmakers and to engage with archival records. Maupin's work is grounded in hands-on experiences within glass studios in North Carolina, as well as her own craft practices in stained glass and flameworking. Prior to her doctoral studies, she completed her MA in Decorative Arts, Design History, and Material Culture at the Bard Graduate Center, where she co-authored the qualifying paper titled “Illuminating ‘Gillway’: Concealment of Black Women’s Labor in the Gill Glass Company,” which earned recognition from the Mr. and Mrs. Raymond J. Horowitz Foundation Arts Award. Maupin has also served as a curatorial fellow at Bard Graduate Center Gallery, contributing to the “Goddesses Machine: Fashion in American Silent Film” exhibition scheduled for 2026. Her educational background includes a BA in Art History from Elon University and internships at esteemed institutions such as the Leslie-Lohman Museum, Mint Museum, and Weatherspoon Art Museum.
Department: Department of Computer Sciences