Matt Robertson chats with glass artist Rocko about his journey from aspiring cartoonist to master of Marini, Franchini, and the intricate “cut and flip” technique. 

Rocko opens up about the creative process behind his signature pieces, the challenges and rewards of teaching workshops, and the evolution of his style from lowbrow art to sculptural, gallery-worthy works.

Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at the technical and emotional highs and lows of glass art, including stories of collaboration, memorable mistakes, and the rituals that keep Rocko inspired. Aspiring artists will find practical advice on patience, learning from failure, and developing their own voice in the medium. 

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Also in this episode:  

Mastery Comes from Practice and Patience: Rocko emphasizes that glassblowing is a skill that takes years of practice and patience. Mistakes are inevitable, but each one is a valuable learning opportunity.

The “Cut and Flip” Technique: Rocko provides a detailed explanation of his signature “cut and flip” process, including tips on planning, color selection, stringer preparation, and heat control—offering aspiring artists actionable insights.

Teaching Is Incredibly Rewarding: Rocko finds deep satisfaction in teaching workshops and seeing students take techniques in new directions, highlighting the importance of sharing knowledge within the glass art community.

Artistic Evolution Is Natural: Rocko’s style has evolved from lowbrow, pipe-inspired art to more sculptural, non-functional, and gallery-ready pieces, showing that it’s normal for artists to shift their focus and interests over time.

Community and Collaboration Matter: Whether through events like the Molten Art Classic or working with other artists—which pushes creative boundaries and fosters growth.

Rituals and Inspiration Fuel Creativity: Rocko shares personal rituals, like carrying the first chip from a Marini pull, and draws inspiration from art history, museums, and cultural symbolism, reminding artists to find meaning and motivation beyond the studio.

Don’t Be Afraid to Try New Things: From experimenting with soft glass to creating non-functional art for galleries, Rocko encourages artists to step outside their comfort zones, adapt, and continually seek new challenges in their craft.

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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.