Life & Work with Robin McNair

Today we’d like to introduce you to Robin McNair.

Hi Robin, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My interest in stained glass was sparked simply by seeing a beautiful piece of stained glass artwork on social media a little over 4 years ago. I, like so many others, always associated stained glass with churches and grandmas. However, this piece was fresh and contemporary, unlike nothing I had ever seen. I’ve always had a makers heart, so I decided right then and there that I was going to learn how to make stained glass.

I drove to my local library to check out the 3 books they had on stained glass, watched hours of YouTube, and through tons of trial and error, I taught myself how to make a stained glass panel.

Now usually my Gemini brain would quit just after learning a skill, but I stuck with this one, and I’ve managed to grow and branch into different forms of the medium, such as 3D stained glass sculptures. I recently entered 2 pieces into a local art competition and came away with 2nd place and honorable mention ribbons.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As far as roads go, I can’t say mine has been incredibly bumpy, but I have had my fair share of setbacks, insecurities, and failures just like any other artist.

One particular struggle is with the medium itself. Glass is unforgiving, and most stained glass artists will tell you that they have entire shelves filled with broken pieces and failed projects. I am no exception. There have been lots of tears shed over broken glass. And even though I have learned and grown a lot in the time I’ve been making stained glass, breakage still happens.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a stained glass artist, and I am known for incorporating themes of music, bright colors, and spooky imagery into my artwork.

One branch of stained glass artwork that I have really enjoyed working in is 3D. I’ve made several music boxes, terrariums, and lamps, with the most notable being a 3D stained glass skeleton ribcage lamp.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I don’t read a lot or listen to podcasts, but I do 100% of the time listen to music while I work. In fact, most of my work has been inspired by a song or particular lyric. Some of my favorite musicians to listen to while I work are Band of Horses, Lord Huron, Kendrick Lamar, Phoebe Bridgers, and The Avett Brothers.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.colorshowglassworks.com
• Instagram: @colorshowglassworks
• Facebook: colorshowglassworks
• TikTok: @colorshowglassworks