Get to know our Vendors: Introducing Tiny Mike
This week, we would like to introduce you to one of our most incredible vendors, Tiny Mike. If you have yet to acquire a piece from this mind-blowing artist, you’re definitely going to want a few after you check out his work and learn a little more about him. Read on to learn more!
About Tiny Mike
Tiny Mike hails from Cave Junction, Oregon, where he happily enjoys the outdoors and riding motorcycles, regardless of what the interesting Pacific Northwest weather brings. His natural surroundings are a great influence in his work, and from just a quick glance, I presume his blown glass pipes are inspired by the mountain sunsets, magical Oregon fungi, cloud formations, wildflowers, waterfalls, and rushing rivers found in the local wilderness.
How He Found the Torch
Mike’s passion for glassblowing began in 1998, and he has been working the torch ever since. His first introduction to the medium came at the age of 15, from watching an artist named Darby Holm, who created blown glass works in a bus. Holm was a profound influence, and he eventually became Mike’s mentor and occasional teacher.
Inspired By Nature & Community
Like the ever-shifting Oregon weather, Mike’s style changes with the times. It’s this understanding of evolution that has enabled him to continue creating brilliant works of art for over 20 years. For instance, while the advent of dabbing changed the game for many glass artists, Mike has been able to continue on the path of creating one-of-a-kind inside-out glass pipes. Mike is true to his calling and is confident in his ability to leave his mark through the quality and craftsmanship he dedicates to every piece made under his control.
In addition to the natural world, Tiny Mike stays continuously inspired by his community of fellow glassblowing artists. He credits the camaraderie of this supportive group for inspiring and driving him to do his best every day.
Dealing with Challenges of Art Life
Challenges are part of life for any artist and Mike finds his greatest challenge to be creating work that people value and love as much as he does, from the creative side of things. As an artist, Mike’s goals are pretty simple: just to leave something beautiful to be remembered by is all he’s looking for, in addition to the ability to create great work for a living.
How He Feels About the Blown Glass Industry’s Massive Growth
The blown glass pipe and bong industry has grown exponentially over the past decade and we couldn’t be happier to see so many great artists gaining notice and being able to live their dreams. Tiny Mike is one of these greats who creates wildly interesting, fun, unique pieces that belong in the collections of everyone who loves original glass art. On the explosive growth, Mike says “I never expected this. I just started blowing glass for fun because I was mesmerized by it. It's truly amazing what this niche industry has become, and I’m so glad to be a part of it.”
So get yourself a few Tiny Mike pieces today! You’ll be glad you did!
