Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
Don’t Wait! You ARE GOOD ENOUGH To Do What You Love | Feat. Glass Artist Andrew Mitchell
Matt Robertson chats with Glass artist Andrew Mitchell, about his passion for glass blowing and his thriving career in the music industry – including when he gave George Clinton a bag of mushrooms and he ate the entire bag all at once!
Mitchell shares his fascinating journey, from his early exposure to the glass pipe culture at live music festivals to his immersion in the vibrant Lawrence, Kansas glass scene. He also explores his relationships with legendary glass artists like Marcel Brown and Jason Lee, and how he navigated the tight-knit community to hone his craft. The conversation delves into the integration of glass and music, as Mitchell recounts his experiences as a tape trader, recording live shows and fostering connections with musicians. Throughout the discussion, Mitchell offers insights on the power of collaboration, the value of stepping out of one's comfort zone, and the importance of continuously seeking growth opportunities. This episode provides a unique perspective on the intersection of glass art, music, and the entrepreneurial spirit.
Also in this episode:
- The importance of training, hard work, and physical action in achieving success, rather than just manifesting it. Andrew and Matt emphasize that doing what you love can eventually pay off, but you have to put in the effort.
- The influential role that music, particularly bands like Grateful Dead and Fish, played in introducing Andrew to glass art and the surrounding culture and community.
- The value of community and personal connections within the glass art world, and how overcoming initial intimidation and getting to know other artists can open up new opportunities for Andrew.
- The integration of glass art and music, with Andrew discussing his experiences recording live shows, trading tapes, and the overlap between the two creative communities.
- The impact of events like Burning Man and Rainbow Gatherings on fostering a free market culture and sense of community within the glass art scene.
- Andrew's experiences of learning from and being inspired by legendary glass artists like Marcel Brown and Jason Lee, and the importance of in-person interactions in artistic growth.
- The thoughtful approach Andrew and Matt take to collaborations, prioritizing genuine personal connections over just pursuing opportunities for exposure or financial gain.
- Andrew's transition into tour management in the music industry, leveraging his prior experience and connections to expand his career path beyond just glass art.
- The challenges of balancing multiple creative pursuits, maintaining a professional demeanor when interacting with high-profile musicians, and navigating the logistics of the music industry.
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About Matt Robertson
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.