Why Certainty Is The ENEMY Of Growth For Every Glass Artist | feat. Banjo

Matt Robertson chats with glass artist Banjo, who takes us on an extraordinary journey through his 25-year career. From humble beginnings making banjos in a tiny horse shed to creating intricate Transformer sculptures and delicate Devi pieces, Banjo reveals the raw, unfiltered story of an artist constantly pushing boundaries.

 

Banjo discusses the early days of functional glass art, pioneering artists who shaped the scene, and discover how a young musician transformed into one of the most innovative glass sculptors of his generation. He also shares intimate stories of artistic struggle, philosophical insights, and the relentless pursuit of creative growth.

 

Learn about Banjo’s evolution from massive, complex sculptures like Transformers’ Megatron to miniature masterpieces, and gain unprecedented insight into the mind of an artist who refuses to be confined by convention. With humor, wisdom, and unfiltered honesty, Banjo explores the intersection of art, consciousness, and personal transformation.

 

This episode is brought to you by:

 

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Also in this episode:  

• Artistic Evolution: Banjo's journey demonstrates the importance of continuous adaptation, moving from banjo-making to glassblowing, and constantly challenging himself by exploring different scales and styles of art.
• Creative Resilience: Starting from humble beginnings in a small horse shed, Banjo transformed challenges into opportunities, proving that passion and persistence are crucial in developing a unique artistic career.
• Philosophical Approach to Art: His belief that "certainty is the enemy of growth" reflects a mindset of constant learning, curiosity, and openness to new experiences and techniques.
• Community and Mentorship: The glass art community played a crucial role in Banjo's development, with early influences from artists like Jason Lee, Marcel, and Clinton shaping his artistic trajectory.
• Functional Art Transformation: Banjo witnessed and participated in the evolution of glass art from purely aesthetic pieces to functional smoking devices, adapting his craft to changing market demands.
• Consciousness and Creativity: His deep philosophical insights about awareness, consciousness, and personal growth are intricately linked to his artistic process and approach to life.
• Scaling and Technical Mastery: From massive Transformer sculptures to tiny "Debbie" pieces, Banjo demonstrates exceptional skill in manipulating glass at different scales, showcasing technical prowess and creative versatility.

 

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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 glas