Shows
Taming LightningEP 64: Luminous Phenomena: Rïse Peacock’s Artistic Journey and Curatorial Intersections at CMoGBlog: www.taminglightning.net Instagram @taminglightning Support on Patreon.com/taminglightning 💰This episode is sponsored by Corning Museum of Glass! Hello Lightning Tamers, Percy here, this is episode number 64! In today's podcast, I’m excited to welcome Rïse Peacock, an artist, curator, and educator with over a decade of experience in the educational and nonprofit art sectors. Currently the first Curatorial Fellow of Postwar and Contemporary Glass at the Corning Museum of Glass. Rïse approaches curating, teaching, and artmaking from an interdisciplinary perspective, with a specific focus on queer histories, ma...
2025-01-2355 min
Taming LightningEP 63: Understanding the Science Behind the Art of Neon with Dani KaesBlog: 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 evolv...
2024-12-2642 min
Taming LightningEP 62: Bright Ideas: Balancing Art and Career with Jacob WillcoxBlog: 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 arti...
2024-11-2134 min
Taming Lightning61: Exploring Light and Ephemeral Art with Alexander Groves of Studio Swine 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...
2024-09-191h 09
Taming LightningEP 60 - Neon Primer with Kacie LeesBlog: 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...
2024-05-231h 07
Taming LightningEP 59: Neon Insights: Alta Robbins' Valve Innovations with Greg WilsonBlog: 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 Rob...
2024-04-2555 min
Taming LightningEP 58: Neon Glo with Adam SmoBlog: 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. Welco...
2024-02-2258 min
Taming LightningEP 57: Kiln-formed Glass and Plasma with Mark DitzlerBlog: 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...
2024-01-2640 min
Taming LightningEP 56: A Conversation on Conservation with Suzanne Hargrove of the Toledo Museum of ArtEpisode 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 ga...
2023-12-211h 34
Taming LightningEP 55: Under Vacuum with Angie McHale ft. Pat GadzinskiEpisode 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 lear...
2023-12-1652 min
Taming LightningEP 54: A Glowing Potential with Kate HerronEpisode 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...
2023-10-2639 min
Taming LightningEP 53: From Furnace to Flame - Pulling Neon Tubes with Ethan Samaha ft. Zach LayhewBlog: www.taminglightning.net Instagram @taminglightning Support on Ko-fi.com/taminglightning and Patreon.com/taminglightning Hello Lightning Tamers! This is episode number 53. In today's podcast, recorded April 8th, 2023, I'll be joined by Ethan Samaha AGAIN and this time featuring Zach Layhew, where we talk about Ethan’s most recent residency at the Pittsburgh Glass Center. Here we talk about the application process for residency, Pulling Tubing for Neon: its challenges, Navigation color palettes, and the importance of residency when trying new ideas. Welcome Back to the Podca...
2023-08-2445 min
Taming LightningEP 52: Emerging Light and Space Artist, Ethan SamahaBlog: www.taminglightning.net Instagram @taminglightning Support on Ko-fi.com/taminglightning and Patreon.com/taminglightning Hello Lightning Tamers this is episode number 52. And in today's podcast, recorded Dec 2nd, 2021, I'll be joined by Light and Space Artist, Ethan Samaha. Ethan Samaha holds a BFA in Art + Design,a focus in Sculpture and Dimensional Studies, with minors in Performance Design and Technology and Dance, from the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University. Ethan is visiting here in Pittsburgh for the week, and had reached out me to meet u...
2023-07-201h 18
The Apex PodcastApex Interview: Blowing Glass and Taming Lightning with Percy EcholsIn today's interview, Jan sits down with Percy Echols II. Percy is a Pittsburgh-based Artist, Alchemist, and Educator who pioneers the development of Neon and Plasma Light Art at the Pittsburgh Glass Center and is the creator and host of the Podcast Taming Lightning.In this episode, Percy and Jan reminisce about where they were in their entrepreneurial journeys when they met four years ago and talk about some of the adventures they've been on over the past few years. From Percy traveling to Italy and Sweden to participate in amazing events centered around artisan glass and...
2023-01-3051 min
Taming LightningEP 51: Moore Tubes with Wayne StrattmanBlog: www.taminglightning.net Instagram @taminglightning Support on Ko-fi.com/taminglightning and Patreon.com/taminglightning Hello Lightning Tamers! This is episode number 51. And in today's podcast, I'll be joined by Wayne Strattman, an innovator in lighted glass plasma technology, as an artist, designer, researcher, teacher, advocate, and author. Having recently published a new book called ‘The Art of Plasma: Creating lighted sculpture with gas, glass and electricity, Strattman reveals the history, theory, and practice of plasma art, and from that history, we'll be talking about plasma lighting before the discovery of inert ga...
2022-11-1738 min
Taming LightningEP 50: Light in Transmission: On curating and Critique with Vicky ClarkSupport on Ko-fi.com/taminglightning and Patreon.com/taminglightning Hello Lightning Tamers! This is episode number 50. And in today's podcast, recorded July 16, 2021 on the closing night for the Exhibition LIT: Light in Transmission, I'll be joined by Vicky A Clark to talk about her background as an independent curator, writer, and critic, as well as insights on the exhibition. Thank you Vicky for your time on the podcast, your review, and your advice. I'd like to thank Pittsburgh Glass Center for supporting me as a place of research and inspiration, in addit...
2022-11-0348 min
Taming LightningEP 49: Glass Quarterly no.163 - LIT Review by Vicky A. ClarkThis is episode 49 and in today’s podcast I’ll be reading a review on an exhibition I curated called LIT: Light in Transmission which was shown in Hodge Gallery at the Pittsburgh Glass Center last year in 2021 from February 5 and extended until July 28. This is the second exhibition I’ve curated the first being in 2017 an ISU Alumni exhibition from Glass Progam, and so I find this to be valuable to have documented thoughts and interpretations of what I’ve helped create. This goes double for the podcast and any of the video guides, and content, I produce. Your feed...
2022-10-2713 min
Taming LightningEP 48: Return to Taming LightningHello Lightning Tamers! This is episode number 48 and in this podcast returning to Taming Lightning, I’ll talk about what I learned during my hiatus both in plasma and career, update on the podcast scheduled through the end of 2022, and talk about What I’m doing now! Support on Ko-fi.com/taminglightning and Patreon.com/taminglightning Music credits to the following artists in order of appearance: The Art of dying quote from Bruce Lee from Longstreet The opening theme -Taming Lightning by Trav B. Ryan Credits - Walking by Ras-Hop Blog: www.taminglightning.net Instag...
2022-10-2426 min
Taming Lightning2022 Hiatus - July to October Music credits to the following artists in order of appearance: Preview - Sung Jin Woo Rap | "Arise" by Daddyphatsnaps The opening theme -Taming Lightning by Trav B. Ryan Credits - Walking by Ras-Hop Hello Lightning Tamers! This is not an episode. So in today's podcast, I’m going to give a little announcement about Taming Lightning going on a hiatus. YES, you heard that right a hiatus.I’ve officially planned for the hiatus to start July and to end in October, 2022. The reason for this hiatus is well, I need to take time to st...
2022-07-0205 min
Taming LightningEP 47: Thomas Zickuhr & Neon LabEpisode Sponsored by Glass Art Society and Fluxeon Shownotes on www.taminglightning.net Hello Lightning Tamers! This is episode 47, and I’m here with Thomas Zickuhr of Neon Lab and Neon instructor at the University of Wisconsin Madison. Thomas Zickuhr is a neon glass/mixed media artist based out of Madison Wisconsin and has been a neon glassblower for nearly 20 years, though has been an active artist his entire life. After finishing his degree in Fine Art/Sculpture from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Tom moved to Boulder Colorado and took on a...
2022-05-1247 min
Taming LightningEp 46: Ben Orozco - Neon as Systems BuildingEpisode Sponsored by Glass Art Society and Fluxeon Shownotes on www.taminglightning.net Hello lightning Tamers this is episode number 46. And in today's podcast, I'll be joined by Ben Orozco. Ben has co-hosted on the podcast in theTaming Lighting x GEEX collaboration, a 4 part series called Intro to Plasma.Today Ben will be formally introduced as guest on Taming Lightning and we well be talking Neon as Systems building, the use of light to depict space, and neon as a design language. Music credits Preview - Retro by ONE The opening theme -Taming Lightning by Trav...
2022-04-211h 10
Taming LightningEP 45: Plasma Design with Amy LemaireEpisode Sponsored by Glass Art Society and Fluxeon Shownotes on www.taminglightning.net Hello, Lightning Tamers! This is episode number 45! In today's podcast, I'll be joined by Amy Lemaire. The reason why I want to talk to Amy has been manyfold. I see my journey in hers, the multiple disciples and curiosities, to her involvement with pioneering plasma at Urban Glass, and her current development of plasma education at the Salem Community College Glass Program where she is surrounded by skilled and educated students and faculty, in which she dives into plasma illumination from an e...
2022-04-071h 08
Taming LightningEP 44: David Svenson - Path of Light from Alaskan skies to the Neon ShopEpisode Sponsored by Ventex Technology, Glass Art Society, and Fluxeon. IG @sveneon Show Notes on Taming Lightning Website Hello lightning Tamers this is episode number 44. In today's podcast, recorded June 22, 2020, I'll be joined by David Svenson David Svenson was born in 1953 in Upland, California. He graduated from Pitzer College in 1980, and has been incorporating neon in his work since the mid 80s. Often using glass and neon as his dominant medium, his works are known to express the subtle glow of colored light in combination with carved wood or o...
2022-02-281h 03
Taming LightningEp 43: In the form of neon with Marta BeltowskaEP 43 is OUT! In the form of Neon Marta Beltowska www.martabeltowska.com IG @in.the.form.of.neon @mbeltowska Shownotes on Taming Lightning Website In today's podcast, recorded July 13, 2020, I'll be joined by Marta Beltowska “in the form of neon.” Marta Beltowska lives in Stockholm, Sweden, and works as a Video and STreaming Producer at a non-profit foundation called TRR. She graduated with a bachelor's in photography in 2014 at the University of Southampton in England and started her career as a photography assistant before moving to Sweden...
2021-12-3134 min
Taming LightningEP 42: Harry 2.0 - Lights, Glass, and Phosphorswww.taminglightning.net ig:@taminglightning Harriet Schwarzrock @harryschwarzrock This is episode number 42. And in today's podcast, recorded June 5th, 2021, I'll be joined by Harriet Schwarzrock for Harry 2.0 - Lights, Glass, and Phosphors. We’ll be taking this time to reflect on the recent virtual conference for the 2021 Glass Art Society, recent exhibitions, and projects, and overall plasma journey. Music credits to the following artists in order of appearance: Retro by ONE Taming Lightning by Trav B. Ryan brainstorm by ONE Next Time by Hayku Credits - Walking by Ras-Hop I hope y...
2021-11-181h 23
Taming LightningEP 41: Neon Crash Course with Nikki Lauwww.taminglightning.net ig: @taminglightning Nikki Lau www.nikkilauart.com ig: @lau.nikki Hello Lightning Tamers! In today's podcast, I'll be joined by Ceramic Artist Nikki Lau to talk about her recent residency at the Pittsburgh Glass Center with Crash Course in Neon as a participant in the upcoming exhibition Full Spectrum: Visionaries Elevating Art Craft, and Design and will be opening February 4th, 2022. The exhibition showcases visionary makers of color from around the country who are producing extraordinary craft objects, while illustrating the vast number of pathways to...
2021-11-0443 min
Taming LightningEP 40: Glass Focus 1990 Interview of Paul Seide, ft. Zach LayhewIn today's podcast I'll be joined by Pittsburgh Based - Glass Artist, Zach Layhew to read and review a 1990 Glass Focus Interview of Paul Seide. We talk about what Glass Focus was, and hear about the founder and Glass Collector, Beverly Copeland. "American artist Paul Seide has developed a unique type of glass sculpture which utilizes scientific and electronic technology along with a highly developed artistic sense. His famous neon sculptures are activated by transmitted radio signals, which eliminates the need for messy and cumbersome electrodes. This allows him more freedom to investigate a greater range of...
2021-09-021h 11
Taming LightningEP 39: Michael Flechtner - Drawing with LightOn today’s podcast we have Michael Flechtner! As a child Michael Flechtner was fascinated with electricity, fire and colored light of all kinds. It could be the stained glass windows at church, his father testing the Christmas lights on Christmas Eve and the neon signage in his home town…adorning shop windows and local drive-ins and movie theatres. With Flechtner’s background in sculpture(BFA, MFA) , as he began to learn how to bend neon tubes, it became clear to him through literally some “wrong turns” that he would be able to create 3 dimen...
2021-06-1745 min
Taming LightningEP 38: Wayne Strattman - Standing on the Shoulders of our PredecessorsHello Lightning Tamers! This episode number 38! In today's podcast, I have Wayne Strattman. Strattman’s work encompasses over 30 years of innovation in lighted glass plasma technology, as an artist, designer, researcher, teacher, advocate and author. Wayne has invented unique lighting technologies such as Luminglas- an interactive flat panel plasma light that Star Trek fans will recognize as the charging station for the Borg. While working on creating a plasma TV, he came up with a process of fusing window glass together in a kiln to make flat glass that lit up and was kinetic. Today, his...
2021-05-2049 min
Taming LightningEP 37: Intro to Plasma | Chapter 4: Starting your Plasma JourneyApril 2021 | In the final chapter of this collaborative series, Percy Echols II discusses his journey to become an independent plasma maker, strategies for assembling a gas-filling manifold, and thoughts on accessibility, education, and advancing the field of plasma and glass. Created and hosted by Percy, the Taming Lightning podcast unpacks the alchemy of plasma and neon technology while interviewing glass artists, craftspeople, and scientists in the field. Welcome back, lightning tamers! In this collaboration with GEEX, Percy and Ben Orozco are producing a 4-part series for people new to th...
2021-04-151h 10
2021-04-141h 12
Taming LightningEP 36: Intro to Plasma | Chapter 3: Chemistry of CollaborationFeb. 2021 | In the third chapter of this collaborative series, Percy Echols II and Ben Orozco discuss filling and illumination. Created and hosted by Percy, the Taming Lightning podcast unpacks the alchemy of plasma and neon technology while interviewing glass artists, craftspeople, and scientists in the field. Welcome back, lightning tamers! In this collaboration with GEEX, Percy and Ben Orozco are producing a 4-part series for people new to the plasma process, introducing elements of plasma in an easy-to-apply format and touching on Percy’s journey as a self-starter and alchemist. Podcast episodes premiere mon...
2021-02-191h 13
Taming LightningEP 35 : Rusty Russo - Neon in ExcellenceIn today's podcast, I have Rusty Russo, who has been working and developing his skills in the area of Illuminated Glass Tubing for over 30 years in which he’s acquired an expert level proficiency in glass fabrication, vacuum tube processing, system design, and construction, leak detection, technical support, packaging design, and technical writing. He’s also a Senior R+D Glass Blower for a Boston-based start-up specializing in energy-efficient inductively coupled soda-lime light bulbs. From his beginning as a neon bender, he’s worked as a technical consultant for The EGL Co., a columni...
2021-01-2150 min
Taming LightningEP 34: Tristan August - Plasma & KonstruktivHello Lightning Tamers! This episode number 34! In today's podcast, we have a recording from 2019 during the plasma with blown glass workshop taught at the Glass Factory in Boda, Sweden. I was invited to teach alongside Ed Kirshner and Jamie Guerrero, which was only made possible by the 2019 Advancing Black Arts in Pittsburgh Grant. I wasn’t sure if I was going to release this episode, but seeing that we are halfway through the collaboration with Geex for the Intro to Plasma series, today's guest would be an opportunity to emphasize the need to have a gr...
2020-12-3027 min
Taming LightningEP 33: Intro to Plasma |Chapter 2: Taking ShapeHello Lightning Tamers, In today's podcast, I'll be joined by Ben Orozco for Chapter 2 of the Intro to Plasma series in collaboration with GEEX, the Glass Education Exchange. The series is an introduction for Glass Educators and Makers who are new to the process of Plasma, as well as an introduction to Percy and his thoughts and experiences on learning about Plasma. So in Chapter 2, Taking Shape, we’ll be talking about the fundamental guidelines for creating your forms, aesthetic considerations, and preparing plasma vessels for filling and illumination.
2020-12-171h 08
Taming LightningEP 32: Chapter ONE X Notes: Inspiration, Tell-tale Truth, and Elements of PlasmaHello Lightning Tamers and Welcome to Chapter X notes, These are bonus episodes to supplement the Taming lightning X Geeks collaborative series: intro to plasma, where I was inspired to expand on questions or topics from each episode. In this podcast I will address three topics from Chapter 1, the first being the inspiration behind my drive to learn about plasma, the story, and concept behind The Tell-Tale truth, and to expand on the elements of plasma to better transition into chapter 2: Taking Shape, which will involve the functional and aesthetic consideration for making a vessel in glass. ...
2020-11-2621 min
Taming LightningEP 31: Intro to Plasma | Chapter 1: Plasma Primer with PercyHello Lightning Tamers, this is episode number 31, and in today’s podcast, I'll be joined by Ben Orozco in collaboration with GEEX, where our respective experience as plasma and neon artists, technicians come together to produce a 4 chapter series for glass educators and co-learners new to the plasma process introducing elements of plasma in an easy-to-apply format, while touching on my journey as a self-starter and alchemist. Donate to Support Taming Lighting x GEEX series Show Notes https://geex.glass/resources/taminglightning-podcast/ Music: Intro: Boost by Joakim Kar...
2020-10-2229 min
Taming LightningEP 30: A Noble Quest: History of Noble GasesThis episode is sponsored by The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Heinz Endowment in reception of the Advancing Black Arts in Pittsburgh Grant, and residency is hosted by the Pittsburgh Glass Center. Intro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud www.patreon.com/joakimkarud Outro Music: The Process by LAKEY INSPIRED WWW.LAKEYINSPIRED.COM https://soundcloud.com/lakeyinspired www.patreon.com/lakeyinspired Hello Lightning Tamers, this is episode number 30, and in today’s podcast, I’ll be reading the article “A Noble Quest: Histor...
2020-09-1931 min
Taming LightningEP 29: Dalibor Farný x Nixie TubesIntro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud www.patreon.com/joakimkarud Outro Music: The Process by LAKEY INSPIRED WWW.LAKEYINSPIRED.COM https://soundcloud.com/lakeyinspired www.patreon.com/lakeyinspired Hello, Lightning Tamers this is episode number 29. In today's podcast, we have Dalibor Farny! For those who don't know he's a small manufacturer of the world's largest nixie tube & Clocks in the Czech Republic. The reason I wanted to have him on the podcast is for several reasons, one which I believe...
2020-07-2437 min
Taming LightningEP 28: American Classic Neons with Tim TakacsIntro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud www.patreon.com/joakimkarud Outro Music: The Process by LAKEY INSPIRED WWW.LAKEYINSPIRED.COM https://soundcloud.com/lakeyinspired www.patreon.com/lakeyinspired Hello Lightning Tamers, this is episode number 28! In today’s podcast, we have American Classic Neons with Tim Takacs! Just in case there may be any concern, this podcast was recorded in early March 2020, prior to COVID-19 Pandemic. Thank you.R Thank You for listening to the Taming Lightning Podcast...
2020-06-0521 min
Taming LightningEP 27: Candice Watkins - Enlightened ArtsIntro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud www.patreon.com/joakimkarud Outro Music: The Process by LAKEY INSPIRED WWW.LAKEYINSPIRED.COM https://soundcloud.com/lakeyinspired www.patreon.com/lakeyinspired Hello Lightning Tamers, this is episode number 27. In today’s podcast we have Enlightened Arts with Candice Watkins, who had formerly worked with Neon & Illuminated Art, Sculpture & Site-Specific Projects, and currently works with organizing and promoting events in Columbus, Ohio. Just in case there may be any concern, this podcast was recorded...
2020-05-2929 min
Taming LightningEP 26: Mundy Monday - DIY Electrodes and Gas MixturesIntro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud www.patreon.com/joakimkarud Outro Music: The Process by LAKEY INSPIRED WWW.LAKEYINSPIRED.COM https://soundcloud.com/lakeyinspired www.patreon.com/lakeyinspired This is episode 26 Monday with Mundy featuring a conversation about Mundy’s experimentation with making his own electrodes, and a recent iteration he’s been exploring using dumet wire and silicon aluminum welding wire.
2020-04-2932 min
Taming LightningEP 25: Bruce Suba - On Learning as much as you can, and MORE!Intro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud www.patreon.com/joakimkarud Outro Music: The Process by LAKEY INSPIRED WWW.LAKEYINSPIRED.COM https://soundcloud.com/lakeyinspired www.patreon.com/lakeyinspired In today’s podcast, I’ll be introducing Bruce Suba: scientific glass, neon, and plasma. Bruce and I have been in conversation for over a year or so, we met in person last year at the Plasma Parley hosted by Glas, Neon Art Studio in Raleigh, NC. This was recorded towards the end of my...
2020-04-1044 min
Taming LightningEP 24: Cork Marcheschi - Making Art that Lights You Up!Intro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud www.patreon.com/joakimkarud Outro Music: The Process by LAKEY INSPIRED WWW.LAKEYINSPIRED.COM https://soundcloud.com/lakeyinspired www.patreon.com/lakeyinspired In today’s podcast we have artist Cork Marcheschi, who background is numerous whether it be fine arts, sculpture, music, film, writing, neon, or plasma. His diverse use of materials in his artwork are often accompanied and or influenced by light. During my trip to the Bay area in January, I asked Patrick Collentin...
2020-04-0347 min
Taming LightningEP 23: David Wilson - Solar Powered Glassblowing, Glo Glass, and Plasma!Intro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud www.patreon.com/joakimkarud Outro Music: The Process by LAKEY INSPIRED WWW.LAKEYINSPIRED.COM https://soundcloud.com/lakeyinspired www.patreon.com/lakeyinspired In today’s podcast, we have David Wilson glassblower and owner of Atomic Solar for renewable solar energy. When it came to neon he was inspired by neon and furnace works of Paul Seide that he saw when visiting the Heller Gallery, which leads to his first Neon experience in 1993 as an assistant to Jacob...
2020-03-2352 min
Taming LightningEP 22: David Johansen aka Neon Dave - Navigating Art and CraftIntro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud www.patreon.com/joakimkarud Outro Music: The Process by LAKEY INSPIRED WWW.LAKEYINSPIRED.COM https://soundcloud.com/lakeyinspired www.patreon.com/lakeyinspired In today’s podcast we have David Johansen aka Neon Dave in Portland, Main. Dave and I met during the 1st plasma class offered at the Pittsburgh Glass taught by Wayne Strattman and Mundy Hepburn. After following his work, I thought I touch base with Dave, and learn a little more about his work and...
2020-01-2444 min
Taming LightningEP 21: Ashley Goodwyn - Adapting Neon and Plasma from Urban GlassIntro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud Outro Music: Zoned Out by Joakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud www.patreon.com/joakimkarud Hello Lightning Tamers, this is episode number 21. In today’s podcast we have Ashley Goodwyn of Urban Glass, in the middle of her transition for Grad School at Wisconsin-Madison University. We recorded this back in July 2019, after she taught a neon workshop at Glass Axis. We’ll talk about her introduction to neon and plasma, as well as how she uses both in her work, and her p...
2020-01-1035 min
Taming LightningEP 20: Advancing Black Arts in Pittsburgh: Plasma Light Art from Sweden to Boston, and Beyond!This episode is sponsored by the The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Heinz Endowment in reception of the Advancing Black Arts in Pittsburgh Grant, and residency is hosted by the Pittsburgh Glass Center. Intro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud www.patreon.com/joakimkarud Outro Music: The Process by LAKEY INSPIRED www.lakeyinspired.com https://soundcloud.com/lakeyinspired www.patreon.com/lakeyinspired Hello Lightning Tamers, this is episode number 20. In today’s podcast we have Simone Traub our marketing Intern at the Pittsb...
2019-12-1343 min
Taming LightningEP 19 : Tommy Gustafsschiöld - The Last Neon Bender (in Scandinavia)Intro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud Outro Music: Zone Out by Joakim Karun www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud www.patreon.com/joakimkarud Hello Lightning Tamers, this is episode number 19! In today’s podcast we have Tommy Gustafsschiöld of Nordic Neon and Diod. He’s one of the last remaining Neon Shops in all of Scandinavia. We’ll hear about his beginnings and earlier life prior to neon, as well his recent explorations in making art whether it be a collaboration or his own. What I also find interesting is how he proces...
2019-11-2436 min
Taming LightningEP 18: Steven Cole - 2nd Generation to the NextIntro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud www.patreon.com/joakimkarud Outro Music: The Process by LAKEY INSPIRED www.lakeyinspired.com https://soundcloud.com/lakeyinspired www.patreon.com/lakeyinspired In Today’s podcast, we have Steven Cole an artisan of neon based in Melbourne, Australia, a master craftsman of 40+ years in this increasingly unique skill of glass bending Neon in both commercial and Artwork, who have in the last 3 years came about exploring plasma light art. I was fortunate to meet and talk...
2019-09-2025 min
Taming LightningEP 17: Inaugural Glas Plasma ParleyToday’s podcast will be a bit different, it’ll feature some of the participants in the Plasma Parley get together host by Neon and Art Studio Glas work in Raleigh by Nate Sheaffer and his crew Zach Willis and Danielle James, along with Bruce Suba on the lead and lathe demos by Mike G of Merge Scientific. This took place over the 4th of July weekend, and I could not think of any other way to celebrate than creating our own firework and sharing that experience among new and old friends. In order of today’s episode, we’ll featu...
2019-09-0645 min
Taming LightningEP 16 - Leo TecoskyIntro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud www.patreon.com/joakimkarud Outro Music: The Process by LAKEY INSPIRED WWW.LAKEYINSPIRED.COM https://soundcloud.com/lakeyinspired www.patreon.com/lakeyinspired In today’s podcast we have Leo Tecosky. With a BA in Fine Art from Alfred University and an MFA from The School of Visual Arts in Manhattan, Tecosky teaches at studios and schools in Brooklyn, nationally and internationally. Leo lives and works in Brooklyn, NY blowing glass and maintaining a studio practice...
2019-07-1919 min
Taming LightningEP 15: Ed Kirshner - Plasma YodaIntro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud www.patreon.com/joakimkarud Interlude Music: Flix and Chill by Joakim Karud Outro Music: The Process by LAKEY INSPIRED WWW.LAKEYINSPIRED.COM https://soundcloud.com/lakeyinspired www.patreon.com/lakeyinspired Hello Lightning Tamers, this is episode number 15, and In today’s podcast we have the Plasma Yoda, Ed Kirshner of Aurora Sculpture. He’s been working on in Plasma for roughly over 20+ years. Inspired the natural occurance of plasma, such as the au...
2019-07-091h 16
Taming LightningPlasma, Workshops, and ExpectationsPlasma is so very layered in information and technique with varying fields of knowledge, and this is no different from any practice of any medium. The following are my thoughts after Blow and Glow Plasma workshop at PGC, the purpose of workshops, Navigating expectations with work made, and how to get the best out of your experience. Checkout www.taminglightning.net for more! Plasma Art Alliance www.plasmaartalliance.com Intro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud www.patreon.com...
2019-06-3018 min
Taming LightningEP 14: Danielle James | DJ NeonHello Lightning Tamers! This is episode 14! In today’s podcast we have Artist and Maker Danielle James aka DJ Neon, who is currently based in Raleigh, North Carolina as an apprentice at Glas Studio. She is known for her series “signs of the times: a single lady’s life in neon” which draws the most memorable moments and online messages from the personal experiences of women using modern online dating services. We’ll hear about her artistic background in metals and jewelry, her Neon origin at Glas, and more. Checkout www.taminglightning.net for more! Intro M...
2019-06-0754 min
Taming LightningEP 13: Eve Hoyt - Evening NeonHello Lightning Tamers! This is episode 13! In today’s podcast we have Philadelphia Artist Eve Hoyt of Evening Neon. Who began her journey in neon in late 80’s followed by several years working in the neon sign industry. Bored with making signs but in love with the medium of neon, she set up her own neon studio where she could be free to explore the possibilities of neon as an art form. Show Notes Intro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud w...
2019-05-1930 min
Taming LightningEP 12: Ben Livingston - BeNEONIntro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud www.patreon.com/joakimkarud Outro Music: The Process by LAKEY INSPIRED WWW.LAKEYINSPIRED.COM https://soundcloud.com/lakeyinspired www.patreon.com/lakeyinspired This is episode 12! In today’s podcast we have the Austin, Texan artist Ben Livingston who is internationally known for his neon/light sculpture. He is the inventor of an opalescent color palette for neon, using a variety of UV sensitive phosphorescent compounds and minerals. Ben originally observed these glowing compounds in New Zea...
2019-04-141h 23
Taming LightningEP 11: Sarah Blood - Light and MaterialHello Lightning Tamers! This episode 11! In today’s podcast, we have Artist and Educator, Sarah Blood. We couldn’t have found a better time to release this podcast, than now. As we recently finished up episode 10 talking about the process of plasma, we must consider how we use it as a medium. Sarah talks about her neon origin, her use of light and material, education and misconceptions of neon. Show Notes Intro Music: Boost by Joakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud www.patreon.com/joakimkarud ...
2019-03-2237 min
Taming LightningEP 10: Light up your world with PlasmaHello Lightning Tamers, This is Episode number Ten! “ Light up your World with Plasma” Thank you for patience It’s been long 7 months, since our last podcast episode.A much needed hiatus after my Dad had passed away. I've been struggling to find my light, but I knew my Dad wanted me to keep going and to do something I love, and this podcast and exploring this medium is definitely part of that. In today’s episode I’ll be talking about the first plasma class offered at Pittsburgh Glass Center taught during the 2018 S...
2019-02-2843 min
Taming LightningEP 9: Bernd Weinmayer - Hidden MasterHello Lightning Tamers, This is Episode number Nine! Thank you for patience as there was a lot going on in may especially with my trip to Venice, Italy, where I was attending the Glass Art Society Conference in Murano. While I wasn’t able to get any on-site interviews(I mean come on, it’s Venice), I was able to connect with many of the participants in the Light, Neon, and plasma exhibition called Vetro Illuminato, which was curated by Pat Collentine from Episode number one, and Ed Kirshner, which directly ties into our guest for the today’s Podcas...
2018-07-2423 min
Taming LightningEP 8 - Harriet Schwarzrock - Hearts and MindsIn Today's Podcast, we'll be talking with Harriet Swarzrock an Australian glass artist who has recently finished a residency at Canberra Glassworks where she explored the use of both plasma and neon in her work. I invited her to the podcast after seeing her posts on Facebook and Instagram. Initially hesitant to the invitation, but she was happy to share her experience as a glassblower at the beginning of a new process. Here we’ll be illuminating the struggles of learning Plasma, the issues she had to overcome, as well as the role that the resi...
2018-05-091h 00
Taming LightningEP 7 - Mundy Hepburn - Mad Scientist, Alchemist, and Luminous Glass ArtistIn Today's Podcast, we'll be talking with Mundy Hepburn a luminous glass artist who has been making lights since 1976 with over 30 years of experience working in Plasma. In his work, he embraces his inner mad scientist and alchemist with his studio containing several different tanks of noble gases, tubing, valves, gauges, and other dodads. His approach is especially unique in that he uses soft glass, such that seen in furnace glassblowing, to create life-sized plasma lamps and vessels, as well his use of neon torches for shaping hand pulled glass tubing, creating distinct forms and gestures. M...
2018-04-021h 01
Taming LightningDylan Neuwirth and Western Neon School of ArtIn Today’s Podcast we’ll be talking with Dylan Neuwirth an artist and sculptor working with light, space and interactive technologies which includes neon and virtual reality. his work is autobiographical,with light being embedded in his Personal Narrative, a custom-made neon sign with his mothers name in red cursive letter, Blade Runner, and David Bowie’s “Space Oddity” are a part of his origin. Like many artists, light is a beacon, a place to return to, or something to reveal the darkness we can cannot bear look at. His work expands on themes that include early memories of alienat...
2018-01-1748 min
Taming LightningEP 5 - Kiki Jewell - High Voltage Plasma Art and BANG! StudioIn today’s Podcast we’ll be talking with Kiki Jewell. Kiki is a software engineer who has been captivated by light since she was a young girl and yet found herself creating as a metal sculptor and 3D graphic artist while making light sculptures through the use of EL wire, fire, and of course Neon and Plasma. Introduced to Neon in 1992, she’s educated herself through classes she’s taken at Crucible in Oakland, California, Penland School of Crafts in North Carolina, as well as learning from prominent artists such as Bruce Suba and Ed Kirshner. She...
2017-12-1439 min
Taming LightningSpeakable - A Blaze of Crimson Light: The Story of NeonIn today’s podcast, I’d like to introduce a new segement called Speakable. Think of speakable as Audiobook for content be it articles or blog posts that relate to the Art, Science, or History of Neon and Plasma. This was largely inspired by my love for audio books, and the podcast Optimal Living Daily Podcast that is centered around narration of articles and blog posts, with given permissions. So I thought I’d give it a shot to help fill in the gaps when interviews and discussions are being scheduled. To be able to give life to content that I...
2017-11-0726 min
Taming LightningEP 3 - James Akers - Waver and Hacker ArtistIn today’s podcast we’ll be talking with James Akers a Neon Sculptor and self-proclaimed Waver and Hacker Artist. James is an artist, educator, and mad scientist who has a explosive approach to making. Graduating from Alfred University with a BFA in 2015, he is constantly thriving for change, and fascinated by waves of all kinds: sound, light, electricity, he is synthesizing a new mindset: The “Hacker Artist.” James Akers has shown his work internationally, been the recipient of public art commissions and has received numerous awards and grants for his practice. Up until his recent move to Arlingt...
2017-09-1135 min
Taming LightningEP 2 - Ashlin Williamson - Fourth State GlassIn today's podcast, we’ll be talking with Ashlin Williamson of Fourth State Glass. We'll hear about his journey in plasma, how he got into using neon gases, latest projects, and his involvement in The Plasma Art Alliance, an emerging organization of artist using plasma in their light sculptures. Ash and I met in 2014 when we took a plasma workshop with Pat Collentine at Pilchuck Glass School. Since then we've kept contact sharing and exchanging ideas and latest projects. Image: Emoticon Hieroglyphs by James Akers', who will be one of our future guest on th...
2017-08-2241 min
Taming LightningEP 1 - Pat Collentine - Traditional Neon and PlasmaFinally, It's here, the first podcast episode of Taming Lightning! Thank You for your patience and your support. It was a lot of figuring out how I would like to the podcast to run, as well as recording, editing, and publishing! Image: Emoticon Hieroglyphs by James Akers' , who will be one of our future guest on the podcast. Intro Music: Boost by Jakim Karud www.joakimkarud.com https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud Outro Music: Re-Entry by Lapse https://soundcloud.com/lapse The intr...
2017-07-0938 min