5 days ago
The Robertson's WILD Path to Entrepreneurial Success: Crossing Borders, Dodging Customs, and Chasing the American Dream | feat. Kyle Robertson
Matt Robertson is joined by his wife Kyle Robertson to talk about their journey from meeting in college to having entrepreneurial success building a successful glass art business.
They discuss their early entrepreneurial ventures, the transition to pipe-making, and their move from Canada to the United States. The conversation covers challenges they faced, including a customs seizure that prompted their relocation, as well as the long immigration process. Throughout their story, the couple's passion for glass art and entrepreneurship shines through, offering insights into their creative partnership and the ups and downs of building a business across borders.
Also in this episode:
- Entrepreneurial Roots: Matt and Kyle met in college and immediately started their first business venture, window paintings, while still in school.
- Transitioning to Pipes: Out of necessity during the 2008 recession, Matt transitioned to making pipes, tapping into his prior experience and passion.
- Crossing Borders: The couple faced challenges with visas and customs when moving from Canada to the U.S., leading them to take a risky approach to enter the country.
- Building a Gallery: In Canada, Matt and Kyle opened a successful gallery and studio space called Eddie Roy, hosting artists and events.
- Customs Seizure Setback: A major incident where customs seized $60,000 worth of their glass artwork was a turning point, prompting their move to the U.S.
- Perseverance and Citizenship: After a long immigration process, Matt and Kyle are now permanent residents on the path to U.S. citizenship, embracing the opportunities America has provided.
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About Matt Roberston
Matt Robertson is a visionary artist who has made a significant mark in the glass art world with his unique matte-finished caricature sculptures, each reflecting pivotal moments from his life. His playful spirit shines through in his whimsical glass animal sculptures, often depicted in humorous scenarios that embody his vibrant personality. Inspired by creatures like giraffes, Robertson is captivated by the challenges of working with glass, a delicate medium that demands intense focus and energy, which he channels into his art. Each piece captures a dynamic energy, freezing it in time and offering a glimpse into his imaginative universe. After discovering his passion for glassblowing at Sheridan College in Ontario, he honed his craft in Eugene, Oregon, before returning to Canada to co-founded the Edy Roy Glass Gallery, a pioneering space that merges high art with functional glass pipes. Now based in Evergreen, Colorado, Robertson continues to evolve as a glass artist while hosting "The Robertson Stash" podcast and showcasing his work in galleries worldwide, all while advocating for contemporary glass art and its vibrant possibilities.