My Take on Netflix’s Blown Away – A Glass Blower’s Perspective
- Samantha Sweet
- Mar 17
- 4 min read
Blown Away has done a lot to raise awareness of glassblowing as an art form, which is fantastic from any glassblower's point of view. It has brought this ancient craft into the spotlight, showcasing the incredible creativity, skill, and dedication required to master it. The programme has not only highlighted the beauty of glass art but also demonstrated its relevance in contemporary design and storytelling, bridging the gap between tradition and modern artistic expression.
One of the things I love most about the Blown Away show is how it covers the entire creative process. It starts with the spark of an idea, showing contestants brainstorming and coming up with exciting concepts. This glimpse into their thought processes reveals how varied and personal inspiration can be. Whether it’s drawn from nature, emotions, cultural experiences, or abstract ideas, each artist brings their unique perspective to the table. The show beautifully illustrates that glassblowing isn’t just about making something visually appealing—it's about conveying a message or evoking a feeling.
From there, we see the artists designing shapes that bring their visions to life. This involves carefully planning the forms, considering balance, proportion, and structural integrity. Choosing colours and textures becomes a crucial part of this process. Glass is a wonderfully versatile material that can take on vibrant, bold hues or delicate, translucent shades. The contestants have to think about how light will interact with their work, how layers of colour will overlap, and how different textures can add depth and dimension. It’s fascinating to watch them experiment and take risks on Blown Away, sometimes succeeding spectacularly, and other times learning hard lessons through failure.
Getting the piece successfully into the lehr (the kiln where it cools at a controlled rate to prevent cracking) is the final step. It’s a tense moment because, no matter how skilled the artist is, there is always an element of unpredictability with glass. This uncertainty is part of what makes glassblowing so thrilling. You can plan meticulously, but the material has a mind of its own. A slight change in temperature, an unexpected movement, or pausing for a second can cause a piece to crack or shatter. It’s a reminder that in glassblowing, as in life, nothing is guaranteed.
The show deserves credit for recognising that technique matters, and that mastering it takes years of practice, patience, and perseverance. From gathering molten glass on the end of a blowpipe to shaping it with tools, timing and precision are everything. Yet, Blown Away also emphasises that it’s not just about technical skill. Equally important is the ability to communicate an idea effectively and use the material in innovative ways. It’s this balance between craftsmanship and creativity that sets great glass artists apart.
Blown Away provides an authentic portrayal of life in a hotshop. The contestants look hot, sweaty, and sometimes exhausted, reflecting the intense physical nature of glassblowing. It’s hard, demanding work that requires not only strength and stamina but also the ability to remain calm and focused under pressure. The show captures the rhythmic dance and co-operation necessary when working in a team. Whether it’s passing a tool at just the right moment or assisting with a reheat in the glory hole, that seamless teamwork is essential.
One aspect I particularly appreciate is how the show doesn’t shy away from showing disasters. Too often, traditional glassblowing films present a polished, idealised version of the craft, where everything goes perfectly. But Blown Away shows the reality—pieces that have been laboured over for hours falling irretrievably to the floor, shattering in an instant. It’s heartbreaking to watch, but it’s a crucial part of the creative process. These moments of failure teach resilience and push artists to innovate and problem-solve. In glassblowing, as in any creative pursuit, we only discover the boundaries of what’s possible by testing and sometimes breaking them.
The show has also had a significant impact on viewers. Many students I meet who have watched Blown Away had no idea blown glass could be used so creatively. They are amazed by the fluidity and movement of molten glass and feel inspired to try it themselves. This newfound interest is fantastic for the future of the craft, bringing fresh ideas and perspectives into the world of glass art. It’s heartening to see a new generation of artists excited about a medium that has been around for thousands of years but is still evolving in unexpected ways.
Blown Away does an excellent job of highlighting the versatility of glass as a material. From functional pieces like bowls and vases to abstract sculptures and conceptual art, the range of what can be created is astonishing. The programme challenges conventional ideas of what glass art should be, encouraging artists to push boundaries and experiment with form, function, and narrative. This approach not only captivates audiences but also helps to break down preconceived notions, allowing people to see glass in a new light.
The only thing I’d change is the dramatic dash from the bench to the lehr when each piece is finished. “Don’t run!” is so deeply ingrained in me that I find myself shouting it at the TV every time. In real-world studios, running is a big no-no because it increases the risk of accidents. Seeing the contestants sprint to the lehr adds drama for the viewers, but it makes my glassblower’s heart skip a beat every time!
Overall, Blown Away has done a remarkable job of bringing glassblowing into the mainstream. It has inspired countless people to appreciate the art form and perhaps even try it themselves. More than just a competition show, it’s a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and the human spirit. By sharing the highs and lows, the triumphs and disasters, it tells the story of what it truly means to be an artist. And that, to me, is the most beautiful thing of all.
If you’ve been inspired by Blown Away on Netflix and want to experience the magic of glassblowing for yourself, why not give it a try? You can learn how to blow glass on one of the courses offered at Samantha Sweet Glass. Samantha’s workshops provide a hands-on, immersive experience in a welcoming and creative environment. There’s nothing quite like handling molten glass and shaping it with your own hands—come and discover the joy of glassblowing for yourself!
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