From Rockies to Furnace: A Legacy in Glass

Ryan Bavin

In this presentation, I will share my unique journey as a fourth-generation resident of a small town in the Canadian Rockies, highlighting the influences and inspirations that have shaped my glassblowing career thus far. I’ll discuss my early training under my father at Bavin Glassworks, my experiences at the Pilchuck Glass School in the 1990s, and the growth of our family glass business. Additionally, I’ll reflect on working as a guide in the renowned Bugaboos, exploring how these experiences have contributed to my current artistic path and perspective in the glass industry.

Join Ryan Bavin for a live glassblowing demonstration exploring the Summit Series—an ongoing body of work I've been developing over the past eight years. This series is a study in colour chemistry, form, and the dynamic movement of molten glass. I’ll walk through the processes, discoveries, and experiments that have shaped the evolution of these pieces. Each work takes on a life of its own in the moment, and I’m looking forward to seeing how the next one unfolds in Whitehorse.

Artist Bio: Ryan Bavin, born in 1973 in Invermere, BC, developed a deep passion for his hometown's natural beauty, influencing his art. He began glassblowing at 15 under his father’s guidance and later attended the Pilchuck Glass School, taking on roles such as teaching assistant and gaffer. Working alongside renowned international artists enriched his experience. From the early 2000s until 2018, Ryan contributed significantly to his family's glass studio and gallery, ultimately taking ownership in 2018. He continues to create glass art for clients worldwide, leveraging his extensive experience and training to produce unique works.