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About
Extended Bio
For as long as he can remember, Matthew Olian
has had an interest in two elements that are analogous with glass- minerals
and fire. From an early age, Matt had an interest in gemstones and crystals
that would ultimately lead him to glass. Glass, generally a man made
material, possesses many mystifying qualities that minerals have such as
light and reflections and combinations of transparency and opacity. In
combination with a strong attraction to fire and alchemy, glass was bound
to cross paths in Matt’s future.
A PBS documentary on internationally renowned
glass artist, Dale Chilhuly, convinced Matthew to give glassblowing a try.
The documentary showcased numerous artists manipulating molten hot glass
into different forms without physically touching the medium. Matthew was in
awe and decided he needed to give glass blowing a try.
In 1999, Matthew’s dreams of playing with molten
glass finally materialized. Matt enrolled in an Introduction Lampworking
class with notable glass artist, Gateson Recko. Before the first day of
“class” had even ended, Matthew was hooked. After a few more hours behind
the torch, Matt wanted to setup his own lampworking studio. Taking his
parents advice, Matthew decided to enroll in an extended study of
lampworking at the prestigious Studio of The Corning Museum of Glass. After
relishing every moment of the 2-week intensive, Matt went home and setup
his own studio.
Since then, Matt’s knowledge of the medium and
his artistic vision has evolved tremendously. After working with the medium
for nearly 8 years, Matthew still feels he is a student of glass for life
and continually takes classes and attends yearly seminars. Matthew has
studied flameworking under many nationally and internationally renowned
artists including Bandhu Scott Dunham, Milon Townsend, Vittorio Constantini
and Cesare Toffolo who have all helped him to refine his skills and find
his own, unique styles.
This site is ©
Copyright Matthew Olian 2007, All Rights Reserved.
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