Read the interview with Giggle Glass artist Tropic_meltdown and learn from their glass blowing experience. Learn more about their revolutionary techniques here. Cool Under Pressure: Inside Tropic_meltdown
Who are you?
I'm Randy Callahan, melting under the name Tropic_meltdown
When did you first get started in this industry?
Finally got behind the torch in the fall of 2021.
What New Innovations Have You Been Working On?
I have been fascinated with the colors and optics attainable with fuming pure gold and silver in borosilicate glass, specifically inside out work. My current push has been inside out wig wags. But i love any tech that gives juicy bright fume with some depth!
Heavy silver implosions have always captivated me. The purples/magentas/reds/pinks/blues possible in clear glass have been something I chased since day one. Today I'm using those implosions as hollow sections in various pieces.
I love to make a wide variety of items, but the thick dry pieces hold a special spot in my heart
How Do You See the Future of This Industry Going, and Do You Have Any Advice for Those Trying to Break Into It?
I don't see this industry going anywhere. I think collaboration is the way forward. Finding community, in person or online, has been the best way for me to get my work out to new people. The social media algorithm has not done me any favors, that is for sure! There are just too many super passionate artists like myself out here doing it despite all of the challenges because we were born for this! Find community where ever you can is my suggestion!
Any Fun Facts About Your Work Habits or Creative Process?
Funny you should ask! 😂…. Well I have health issues that make me unable to tolerate heat very well and I live in south Florida where it is way too hot. My flame working goals had some immediate hurdles to overcome if i was going to get any work done in this heat. Thankfully my good friend Clif convinced me to make an A/C suit to melt glass in! After just a couple tweaks I now have a nice little AC cooled and flame retardant 100% cotton welding jumpsuit that I pretty much live in all summer, and a good portion of the cooler season here as well! Turns out, a 65mm Herbert Arnold blasting out jumbo inside out preps makes a TON of heat so i put it on anytime I'm stepping on the gas! Feels amazing to be able to work for hours now and stay cool, but I sure do look a little strange hooked up!
