Introduction

Tyler Hayes has spent over two decades mastering the exhilarating craft of glassblowing, an endeavor that ignites his passion and creativity daily. For the past 12 years, he has successfully operated Hayes Glass Designs in Cobble Hill, a testament to both his skill and commitment to the art form.

Early Life and Inspiration

Originally hailing from New Brunswick, Hayes's journey began in Ontario, where he pursued studies in forestry, environmental studies, and eco-tourism. His expedition westward led him to Victoria, where he encountered acclaimed glassblower Chris Windsor. This meeting not only funded Hayes's travels through the sale of his pieces but also ignited his lifelong fascination with glassblowing. "Playing with fire and melting things drew me in deeply," Hayes reflects, a sentiment that solidified his commitment to this intricate craft.

The Start of His Journey

Initially, Hayes embarked on his glassblowing journey with the foundation of Mystic Creations in 2002, alongside a business partner. Their focus was on unique, hand-sculpted wearable art. With the help of a government grant, they were able to concentrate on their craft without the burden of additional work, allowing for substantial creative exploration. "Having the right tools and a safe environment is paramount," Hayes emphasizes, highlighting the need for proper ventilation and eye protection while working with Borosilicate glass, which has become his material of choice due to its durability and versatility.

The Art of Glassblowing

Hayes describes the transformative process of glassblowing: "Taking something solid, melting it into a liquid, and then reforming it into something beautiful is incredible." His passion extends beyond simple aesthetics; he engages deeply with the material, noting the "alive" quality of molten glass, distinguished by its vibrant orange glow.

Evolution of Glass Art

Over the years, the world of glass art has evolved. When Hayes began, Borosilicate glass was primarily utilized in scientific applications, with an evolving palette of colors introduced in the late 20th century. Hayes sources the highest quality clear glass from the Czech Republic and colorful glass from suppliers in Oregon, alongside employing specialized hand torches from the U.S. that offer remarkable control over the flame, essential in manipulating glass for detailed designs.

Enviro Glass Straws

In 2012, Hayes and his wife Leah ventured into an environmentally-focused endeavor by creating Enviro Glass Straws. This initiative emerged from a simple friend request but blossomed into a booming business aimed at reducing plastic waste. "We wanted to offer a durable, reusable alternative that could contribute positively to the environment," Hayes explains. Their straws gained international traction, becoming popular in upscale venues across the Caribbean, Hawaii, and Dubai, before the pandemic shifted consumer preferences. While sales slowed during COVID-19, Hayes utilized this time to refocus on his artistic creations and continue promoting sustainability.

Masterpieces and Innovation

In addition to glass straws, Hayes is renowned for crafting intricate glass globes and captivating nautical-themed pieces such as octopuses. Each octopus, which can take up to 12 hours to create, reflects his meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail, often selling for $950. His latest experiments include vibrant colors reminiscent of a "tequila sunrise," creating dynamic optical effects that shift with the light.

Memorial Art

A uniquely heartfelt aspect of Hayes’s work involves the memorialization of loved ones. Over the past decade, he has crafted custom glass art incorporating the ashes of the deceased, creating a deeply personal keepsake. This meaningful practice was born from a request from a grieving friend and has since evolved into a cherished service, touching the lives of many who seek to honor their loved ones in a special way.

Conclusion

Throughout his career, Hayes has remained committed to pushing the boundaries of his art while also promoting eco-conscious solutions. His dedication is not just to glass but to creating a sustainable future. "It's a privilege to make these pieces," Hayes reflects, as he continues to innovate and inspire with each melt and mold of glass. Discover more about his creations and the journey of glass art at Hayes Glass Designs.