Right Brain: John Hudnut

John Hudnut told himself after graduating from college and learning product design that if he was going to be a worthwhile artist, he'd better get over to Europe. He went abroad and searched out glass artists while doing odd jobs in design and architecture until in 1990, when he began his first apprenticeship in Paris.

Since then he's put together three glassblowing studios, and said his latest is the best. GatherHouse in Frisco - Hudnut's studio - derives its name from the technical term when a pipe is twirled into a pot full of glass and it gathers the glass. It also refers to his dream of creating a gathering place for artists.

Hudnut sells his work out of his studio as well as through an ever-expanding group of galleries that represent him, he said. He also has a presence at craft shows in the summer.

The majority of the pieces Hudnut makes are things people can use, but he said he'd love to branch out into more outdoor sculptures and environmental art.

Hudnut holds weekly glassblowing demonstrations at his studio.

Dreams

To one day be the proprietor of an artisan/publican by the river with a mountain view.



Why do art?

Some folks are born pet detectives; others congenital rubber band testers. If I was not born an artist, my name would be Harold McGillicudy, not John Hudnut.



Biggest accomplishment

Waking up singing. I used to be a don't talk to me before coffee ogre. Then I left advertising and sign-making for full-time glassblowing. I wake up singing Madonna or the theme song from Charlie Dogs. All of a sudden Breck Main Street lights seem brighter, like it was Christmas in March.

Biggest challenge

To become the hub artist in the growing Breckenridge Arts District. And convert Summit to zero emissions using our glorious sunny and windy spots.



How do you stay fresh?

Same as anyone. Oatmeal, powder days, miles of singletrack, my great wife Kate and an inspired fun-loving team.