Since 2017, Aaron has been providing glassblowing lessons, experiences, and demonstrations for Bend and Central Oregon in addition to his production lines, art pieces and custom orders. Aaron's specialty focuses using traditional methods to produce hand blown glasses, cups and plates and bowls, vases and urns, seasonal items, wedding accents, lighting, trophies and sculptures. All his work are unique, custom art pieces.
Aaron started glass flameworking in 1998 in his home studio in Sierra Nevada Foothills above Folsom Lake, California. After his introduction of furnace glass at Pilchuck in 2002, it became his life goal to have his own glassblowing studio. Aaron fired up his furnace in his new studio and started working fulltime glassblowing in Bend, Oregon in October 2017.
After spending over a decade to develop his wilderness art studio and natural lifestyle, a significant section of the access road failed. There would be no future propane deliveries, thus ending a dream of building his studio at that location. After years of looking at properties, and working to finish projects, sold the property and moved to Bend, Oregon in 2013. Aaron's love of the mountains, snowboarding, fishing, hiking, all led to Bend. Aaron decided to trade the wilderness for in-town living and allow himself more time to focus on his glass art and enjoy the wilderness in Central Oregon.
From 2014-2017, Aaron helped provide hospice care for his 94-year-old grandparents while also recovering from his 2nd shoulder surgery. In 2016 and 2017, the tremendous loss of both grandparents in 6 months, was also the beginning of his new studio. Aaron designed, permitted, coordinated and built his studio. He fired up his glass furnace and started working fulltime in his new studio in Bend in October 2017.
With all experiences living and developing off-grid property using Old World techniques in harmony with earth and nature, Aaron has infinite memories to draw from, strength to carry on in hard times, and courage to do what’s right knowing there will be huge payoff in the end.
As a D-Day+2 WWII veteran, Aaron's grandfather was his role model for honor, integrity, and excellence. His grandfather encouraged hin to finish his new studio and follow his dream. Each day, Aaron feels he stands up to be a better man in search of excellence because of his grandfather, David Rodger (1923-2016).
In June 2021, with the volume of clients increasing, Aaron made the move from his home studio to a commercial location, at 30 SW Century Dr., Suite 120, Bend Oregon. This location provides greater space for classes and large groups. He was able to double the hotshop equipment and a second gaffer's bench plus additional cold-working equipment.
The larger hotshop allows for larger group events and classes. Since 2017, Aaron has taught his mother, Susan, glassblowing and how to be his assistant. Starting any business is difficult, but an art business is especially challenging. Susan has supported Aaron in his art and now gets to enjoy not only being part of his life and business, but to enjoy sharing the ancient art and culture of glassblowing with their commuity.
Together, Aaron and Susan, with their small family business, are able to share their love of glassblowing with Central Oregon in hopes of growing their glassblowing team and community. They can be found daily in their studio, determined and hardworking, always willing to share their knowledge and love of art.
Stop by and show your support!
