Interview with a Maker: Kristi Lynn Conant
Kristi Lynn Conant is the artist behind Creative-Torch, a glass blowing company.
Kristi says: "I started the business originally in 2002, I blew glass full time for 4 years, then took some time away to explore other interests. I learned originally in Vida, Oregon, exploring glasswork with my partner, learning casually from friends. I got my start selling at music festivals, and quickly learned to love Ebay as a far reaching selling tool.
In 2008 I moved back to Eugene, and got back to my torch. With changed interests my art also changed, I had started out making mainly Zodiac pieces, pens, and my own unique pendants, but when I got back to my torch I found myself very attracted to sculptural and drawn glass art.
I have since taken classes at the Eugene Glass School to up my skills, and officially began offering my work publicly again in June of this year, this is my full time work and love. I have, over the years, sold in most American States, and literally dozens of countries. I've done commission work for interior design in Beverly Hills, custom work, production, and of course I've been sellin' my own creations anywhere and everywhere I can manage.
I think we all just create what we love, I never want that to change. Always create what comes from you. Its not an easy road we choose to sell what we create, but its worth it.
I've sold mainly online, through ebay and recently through my own website.
I participate in the Junction City Water Tower Market, The Eugene Saturday Market, and also Crescent Village Market.
My work is also available locally at:
The Eugene Glass Menagerie - Geoff has been kind and understanding with a moody somewhat unreliable artist! Big thanks always to him for his patience. I am honored, always, to sell my work in his store.
In Oakridge, Oregon at Mayfire Glass Arts and Imports- friends I grew up with have started their own store in Oakridge, and are thriving. I am also honored to have been asked to supply their stores lampwork.
In Idaho at Craft Warehouse- my first large scale production orders, the stuff that really helps pay the bills.
