5 days ago
“You Have To Adapt To The Times” 30 Years Of Glass, Grass, and CREATIVE REBELLION | feat. Glass Artist Jerry Kelly
Matt Robertson chats with glass artist Jerry Kelly about his journey through 30 years of glass blowing, Dead tour memories, and artistic evolution.
Jerry shares insider stories from the early days of pipe making, discusses his organic cannabis growing techniques, and reflects on the changing landscape of glass art. From trading pipes on Grateful Dead lots to collaborating with legendary artists, Jerry offers a unique perspective on creativity, freedom, and staying true to your craft. Whether you're a glass art enthusiast, music lover, or just curious about alternative artistic lifestyles, this conversation is a must-listen.
Also in this episode:
- Glass Blowing Evolution: Jerry Kelly has been in the glass art scene for over 30 years, witnessing massive changes in techniques, colors, and artistic approaches.
- Organic Growing Philosophy: Jerry emphasizes using minimal chemicals when growing cannabis, believing that organic methods preserve the plant's natural taste and quality.
- Early Glass Art Scene: In the 1990s, glass artists would sell their pieces at Grateful Dead concerts, with a tight-knit community and a culture of secrecy around techniques.
- Health Awareness: Jerry highlights the importance of eye protection for glass blowers, especially with the introduction of brighter LED lights.
- Artistic Freedom: One of Jerry's core beliefs is the ability to make a living doing what you love, avoiding traditional 9-to-5 jobs and maintaining creative independence.
- Generational Creativity: Jerry is passionate about passing down artistic skills to his daughter, encouraging her musical and potentially glass-making talents.
- Continuous Learning: Despite 30 years of experience, Jerry remains curious and open to learning new techniques, especially from younger artists in the glass blowing community.
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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.