Meet Tayler Drattlo | Neon Glass Artisan / Neon Sign Maker
We had the good fortune of connecting with Tayler Drattlo and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Tayler, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued a creative career not only because I love art but I subconsciously knew I needed to get my hands in something that constantly creates challenges for me to overcome. The more I learn about a material or process, I’ve learned that I know nothing, and must dig even deeper! For example, the nuances of glass bending; this is a life long journey of material exploration for me. I can’t get bored. I love problem solving and having variety in my day to day. Challenge accepted!
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My thirst for knowledge has lead me through my creative career like a hound on a scent. This “ability” has helped me diversify my skill set and evolve my thinking into a more solution driven mindset. Being a female in a historically male driven industry has conjured up strength and gumption I never knew I had. In a way I have felt I always needed to put forward 110% to be taken seriously in the industry. That said, I’m very grateful to be close with a small handful of established neon industry women; we are few but mighty! Also, I wouldn’t be where I am without the men of the industry who have taken me under their wing, and given me a chance. There are many different facets to the neon industry; design, neon bending, neon processing, cabinet fabrication and assembly. I am very lucky to have industry experience in all facets. I currently focus my time on neon glasswork and design out of my studio in New Braunfels, Texas.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate my shout out to Connie Morgan. We have worked together for over a year now, and she has inspired me in my neon practice, and in simply being a good human. We joined forces to in our neon businesses in 2022. I assist with design and pattern work for her business: Glow Neon Lights in Casper, Wyoming. Since then, we put our heads together to create Neon in the High Desert: A Group Neon Exhibition, currently on view at The Nicolayson Art Museum in Casper, Wyoming. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work on such a fun and inspiring project with her! Through this exhibition opportunity, we introduced new and established neon and glass artists in a fresh new way that Casper has never experienced before. Despite being established 1200 miles apart, we work seamlessly together. I’m stoked that I have the big sister I always wish I had and I can’t wait to see what we think up next!
Website: www.taylerdrattlo.com
Instagram: @taylerdrattlo
Image Credits
Tayler Drattlo
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