Blog: www.taminglightning.net

Instagram @taminglightning

Support on Patreon.com/taminglightning

Guest Instagram: @dani.kaes

Hello, Lightning Tamers! Percy here, and welcome to episode 63 of the Taming Lightning Podcast. Today, I’m thrilled to chat with “Dani” Kaes, a talented light artist and educator based in Seattle, Washington.

With a degree in Biochemistry from the University of Puget Sound, Dani brings a scientific lens to her neon practice. She’s also a passionate educator, deeply committed to open access to information, ensuring the neon community continues to grow and evolve, sharing her knowledge at places like Pilchuck Glass School, the Museum of Neon Art, and the Glass Art Society.

In this episode, we’ll take a lightning round of different topics—like how different gases influence the colors we see in neon art, why color theory is such a big part of the process, and nd the science behind vacuum systems and gas mixtures.  We’ll also get into some of the more technical topics like getters (or whatever Dani prefers to call them), Penning mixtures, and ionization efficiency—but don’t worry, Dani has a knack for making it all easy to follow.

We’ll also hear how her scientific background has shaped her artistic approach, the questions in neon she’s still curious to explore, and—of course—we’ll talk The Boy, her energetic furball of feline who’s always by her side.

So, settle in for a great conversation with someone who’s not just making neon art but also advancing the craft with curiosity, humor, and a scientific edge. 

Welcome to the podcast, Dani Kaes!

Time Stamps

• [0:28] Introduction to Dani Kays
• [4:19] Dani's Artistic Journey
• [7:01] Exploring Color Theory
• [11:06] The Science of Gases
• [16:41]Understanding O-Rings
• [19:17] Getters in Neon Production
• [22:59] The Impact of Temperature
• [26:09] Gas Mixtures and Their Effects
• [31:12] The Boy: Dani's Feline Companion
• [39:48] Closing Thoughts and Future Episodes

Music credits

• Preview - Retro by ONE 

• The opening theme -Taming Lightning by Trav B. Ryan   

• Credits - Walking by Ras-Hop

Blog: www.taminglightning.net

Instagram @taminglightning

Support on Patreon.com/taminglightning

Guest Instagram: @willcox.studio

Hello Lightning Tamers, Percy here, and this is episode number 62. In today's podcast, I'll be joined by Jacob Willcox a young and experienced neon bender, artist, and educator from Tacoma, Washington. Jacob's journey with glass and light began in 2012 through the Hilltop Artists program. He went on to earn his BFA with concentrations in glass and neon from Alfred University in 2021. Currently, Jacob works in sales at a sign shop, where he continues to blend his artistic insights with his professional role. 

 So, get ready to dive into an illuminating conversation as we explore Jacob's artistic journey, the balance between creativity and business, and his unique perspective on the future of neon in the modern world of signage.

Welcome to the podcast Jacob Willcox!

Time Stamps

• [0:54] Introduction to Neon and Jacob's Journey
• [2:17] Class Reflections and Experiences
• [6:46] Transition to Professional Neon Bending
• [10:36] The Allure of Neon
• [13:31] Balancing Multiple Roles
• [20:47] Bridging Art and Signage
• [23:29] Perspectives on LED vs. Neon
• [27:53] Future Visions for Neon Art
• [29:54] The Importance of Community Accessibility
• [32:31] Conclusion and Gratitude

Music credits

• Preview - Retro by ONE 

• The opening theme -Taming Lightning by Trav B. Ryan   

• Credits - Walking by Ras-Hop

• Blog: www.taminglightning.net

Instagram @taminglightning

Support on Patreon.com/taminglightning

Guest: www.studioswine.com

Instagram: @studioswine

Hello lightning Tamers this is episode number 61. And in today's podcast, I'll be joined by Alexander Groves one half of the duo known as Studio Swine. Alex and their partner Azuza Murakami had decided to make this arrangement to manage tending to the lovely family they are raising. Just incase anyone is wondering!

Who are Studio Swine?

 The SWINE in Studio Swine, an acronym for "Super Wide Interdisciplinary New Explorers," is a pioneering collective founded in 2011 by Azusa Murakami (JP) and Alexander Groves (UK). Their collaborative journey traverses the realms of art, design, and technology, forging new frontiers in the exploration of light, materials, and human experience.

In this episode, we'll dive into the mesmerizing world of neon and plasma artworks, exploring Studio Swine's fascination with light and materials. From their thought-provoking installations like "Wave. Particle. Duplex." to their upcoming neon installation in South Korea, Alexander will share their insights, inspirations, and the challenges of working at the intersection of art and technology.

Join us as we unravel the creative journey of Studio Swine, where innovation meets imagination and the possibilities are limitless.

Welcome to the podcast Alexander!

Time Stamps

• [0:53] Meet Studio Swine
• [2:58] The Art of Curiosity
• [7:16] Exploring Materiality and Audience
• [7:48] The Journey of Studio Swine
• [10:19] Ephemeral Tech Explained
• [26:33] Collaborating with Experts
• [27:53] The Community of Neon Artists
• [29:18] The Allure of Plasma
• [31:59] The Power of Experience
• [40:17] Under a Flowing Field
• [49:36] Balancing Safety and Creativity
• [59:28] The Art of Learning
• [1:05:48] Taming the Invisible World

Blog: www.taminglightning.net

Instagram @taminglightning

Support on Patreon.com/taminglightning

Guest: www.Kacielees.com

Instagram: @kacielees and @neonprimer

Hello lightning Tamers this is episode number 60. Today, we have the pleasure of diving into the fascinating world of light and art with the incredible Kacie Lees. Born in St. Louis in 1986, Kacie has emerged as a prominent figure in the art scene, leaving her mark in Brooklyn, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

With a BFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and an MFA from the School of Visual Arts in New York, Kacie's artistic journey is nothing short of inspiring. As a dedicated teaching artist at NYU and SAIC, in addition to Museum of Neon Art and Urban Glass, she not only creates mesmerizing works but also imparts her knowledge to the next generation of artists.

Her recently published book, "Neon Primer: A Handbook on Light Construction," has become a cornerstone in understanding the intricate world of neon bending. In this episode, we'll explore Kacie's creative process, the influences behind her work, and the profound impact of light on art. Stay tuned for a captivating conversation with Kacie Lees, a true luminary in the world of contemporary art.

Welcome to the podcast Kacie Lees ...!

Time Stamps

• [6:48] Unveiling Kacies's Artistic Influences
• [16:38] Crafting the Neon Primer
• [28:39] Exploring Installation Techniques
• [29:18] Balancing Teaching and Artistry
• [34:14] Artistic Inspiration
• [35:33] The Glow of Neon
• [36:03] Cultural Significance of Neon
• [38:17] Neon in History
• [46:05] Neon in Urban Spaces
• [48:01] Inspiring Interactions
• [53:04] Future Projects
• [1:01:58]  Neon Rituals

Blog: www.taminglightning.net

Instagram @taminglightning

Support on Patreon.com/taminglightning

Hello lightning Tamers this is episode number 59. And in today's podcast,, I'll be joined by Greg Wilson, the President of Alta Robbins, a leading provider of precision engineering solutions, known for their high quality valves. With a wealth of knowledge in valve engineering and a deep understanding of the needs of the neon industry, Greg is here to share his insights and expertise with us.

Get ready for a deep dive into Alta Robbins valves, where we will learn Alta Robbins connection to Neon while understanding the intricacies one of the most important parts on your neon gas system. This include company history, choice of valve, troubleshooting and repair questions. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out in the world of neon and plasma, this episode promises to be enlightening and informative.

For our Patreon subscribers a transcript will be available for this episode! If your not yet a patreon member, you can sign up for 7-day trial with access to additional Taming Lightning content.

Welcome to Podcast Greg Wilson!

Time Stamps

[2:03] What is Alta Robbins and where did it begin?

[9:47] What interested you to work in this company or work for your father?

[13:42] Is there any sort of advantage[difference] between the 1/4npt and 1/8npt port sizes for the valves? 

[15:39] Discuss  the significance / difference between Brass and Stainless-Steel valve bodies.

[17:26] Considerations when using fittings on Alta Robbins

[20:39] On the website, one the defining features of Alta Robbins is the following statement "The Difference is in the Seat" Could you help me and the audience understand why that is so important to the design?

[26:21] How does Alta Robbins ensure the reliability and durability of its valves in both high-vacuum and high-pressure environments? What is the 4-to-1 safety factor?

[29:25] One of the qualities that I adamire is that Alta Robbins Valves are simple to service. When is it recommended to replace individual parts of a valve versus replacing the entire unit to maintain optimal performance?

[34:51] Troubleshooting or explaination for the feeling like having to make more turns on the valve before seeing the metering of gas.

[37:58] Greg elaborates on a built in safety feature that better explains why it takes more that one turn before opening the valve.

[41:41] There's an arrow on the outside of the valve, and the question that you have been asked before was like, does it matter the direction of that valve in its use?

[45:40] Soft Goods Kit vs Bonnet Assembly, when do you replace parts and when to buy a new valve?

[49:50] What is Alta Robbins thoughts on partnering with Taming Lightning?

[52:13] A fun fact from Greg Wilson and his thoughts on and service to neon.

Blog: www.taminglightning.net

Instagram @taminglightning

Adam smo: www.smoglass.com

• ig: @smoglasstx

Support on Patreon.com/taminglightning

Hello Lightning Tamers this is episode number 58. And in today's podcast, I'll be joined by Adam Smo

Adam Smolesnky aka Adam Smo is a San Antonio-based glassblower known for working at the torch in borosilicate glass, he creates intricately detailed and colorfully crafted marbles, pendants, drinking glasses, pipes, and sculptures, and as of the recent few years has been diligently sharpening and pushing his skills in neon.

Welcome back to the Podcast Adam!

For our listeners, I met Adam back in 2019 on the 4th of July weekend for Glas Inaugural Plasma Parley featured on this podcast in ep 17, where Nate Shaeffer and Bruce Suba hosted a plasma get together to learn and talk about plasma. Adam was the first co-learner I had interviewed from the parley, amongst many who had the skills to not only manipulate the glass to make amazing vessels for plasma and fabricate their own manifold but most importantly the mindset to put aside previous knowledge and be completely open learning. 

Musci Credits:

• Preview - Retro by ONE 

• The opening theme -Taming Lightning by Trav B. Ryan   

• Sponsor - Good2Go - ONE

• Credits - Walking by Ras-Hop

Blog: www.taminglightning.net

Instagram @taminglightning

Mark Ditzler: www.markditzler.com

Support on Patreon.com/taminglightning

In today's podcast, recorded July 2023, I'll be joined by Mark Ditzler. Who has been hospital in my visit to the seattle area, after the class I taught at Pilchuck this summer with Harriet Schwarzrock.

Mark Ditzler is a trained industrial designer, ceramic artist, and self-taught fused glass expert based in Seattle. With over 30 years of experience, he crafts kilnformed glass for commissions and galleries, blending clay techniques seamlessly into his work. Mark has taught fusing classes both locally and nationwide, with a notable tenure at Corning Museum of Glass. His expertise spans neon tube bending in the 1980s, pioneering fused plasma projects with James Nowark Studio in the 1990s, and a collaborative residency at Corning focused on plasma with Wayne Strattman (2017). His work has graced prestigious venues like Bellevue Art Museum (2018) and Hong Kong Science Museum (2019). Currently, Mark is innovating in plasma, creating a bespoke “hood ornament” for a Corvette in L.A. and pioneering flat “neon” using cutting-edge kiln-forming techniques and glass cutting technology. 

Music Credits: 

• Preview - Retro by ONE 
• The opening theme -Taming Lightning by Trav B. Ryan   
• Sponsor - Good2Go by ONE 
• Credits - Walking by Ras-Hop

Episode Sponsored by FMS Sign Prodcuts , use promo code "LIGHTNING" for 10% off your first order.

Blog: www.taminglightning.net

Instagram @taminglightning

Support on Patreon.com/taminglightning

In today's podcast, recorded August 13th, 2023, I'll be joined by Suzanne Hargrove former Head of Conservation at the Toledo Museum of Art in a Conversation on Conservation.  

We met in February 2022 during my GAPP (Glass Artist Pavilion Project) Residency, and she had graciously set up the Paul Seide Radio Light from the Museum's collection. I have a wide interest in glass and gas-illuminated artwork, so I wanted to discuss Paule Seide’s Radio Lights  in this podcast as well. But I believe it's equally as important to address a variety of questions to give us an overview of art conservation and its relation to the artwork and the artist.

Music Credits: 

• Preview - Retro by ONE 
• The opening theme -Taming Lightning by Trav B. Ryan   
• Sponsor - Good2Go by ONE 
• Credits - Walking by Ras-Hop

Episode Sponsored by Alta-Robbins

Blog: www.taminglightning.net

Instagram @taminglightning

Support on Ko-fi.com/taminglightning and Patreon.com/taminglightning

In today's podcast, recorded June 1st, 2023, I'll be joined by Angela McHale aka Angie aka Rose featuring Patrick Gadzinski. We just finishing up the week teaching at the Pittsburgh Glass Center in a class called Under Vacuum a Flameworking and plasma Intensive. We’ll get some insights into being an instructor or educator in the field of glass and plasma, nerd out about scientific glass, and discuss the challenges and learning opportunities found in workshops for professional practice.

Music Credits: 

• Preview - Retro by ONE 
• The opening theme -Taming Lightning by Trav B. Ryan   
• Sponsor - Good2Go by ONE 
• Credits - Walking by Ras-Hop

Episode Sponsored by Alta-Robbins

Blog: www.taminglightning.net

Instagram @taminglightning

Support on Ko-fi.com/taminglightning and Patreon.com/taminglightning

This is episode number 54. And in today's podcast, recorded May 18th, 2023, I'll be joined by Kate Herron on the second to last day teaching a workshop at the Toledo Museum of Art’s Glass Pavilion! We’ll talk with Kate and her experience making art through covid, what brought her to glass, Alfred University program and her introduction to Neon, teaching plasma at Toledo, and what’s next after getting her Masters in Fine Arts!

Music Credits: 

• Preview - Retro by ONE 
• The opening theme -Taming Lightning by Trav B. Ryan   
• Sponsor - Good2Go by ONE 
• Patreon Promo  - Next Time by Hayku
• Credits - Walking by Ras-Hop