Marc Barreda

The itinerant glassblower

• Marc is inspired by cellular patterns and natural curiosities
• He feels innovation lies 'in the fusion of skill and concept'
• He enjoys discovering new approaches to ancient techniques

“I came into contact with glass by accident, having no idea what to expect. Simple curiosity and determination opened a door to an unexpected world. It immediately ignited all of my passions,” says Marc Barreda. Born in Peru and raised in the US, where he studied biology at Williams College, Massachusetts, he started making glass in 2000, working for various traditional and non-traditional masters around the world. He further developed his skills through intensive workshops at renowned institutes, such as the Corning Museum of Glass and the Haystack Mountain School of Crafts. In 2009, he moved to Amsterdam to pursue a master's degree at the Sandberg Institute.

Interview

©Myscha Oreo Lightart

©All rights reserved

How does your science background affect your glassmaking?

My background as a scientist has been key to my devotion to craft, because they are both dedicated to meticulous exploration and understanding. I hope to maintain high standards of craftsmanship in a world where craft has lost its true meaning.

How would you define yourself?

I describe myself as an itinerant glassblower, constantly exploring regions and cultures. I am a maker, with the goal of elevating the artistic medium of glass to new heights and demonstrating the material’s virtues. I am an explorer who uses curiosity to delve into the drama of existence.

What do you love most about glassmaking?

The sheer physicality, a combination of labour, dance and meditation. I love the mental and physical challenges of making glass, and the lifelong pursuit of the skills it requires. I work with a broad range of assistants and masters, and the interaction is enriching, both for me and for them.

Do you master any specific techniques?

I am a jack of all trades! But I do believe my fluency with cane techniques could be described as mastery.

Marc Barreda is a master artisan: he began his career in 2000 and he started teaching in 2004

Works

©Marc Barreda

©Marc Barreda

©Marc Barreda

©All rights reserved

©All rights reserved

Where