Glass Artist Preston Singletary: Raven and the World Now

Preston Singletary is a name that resonates in both the world of contemporary glass art and Indigenous cultural preservation. His unique artistry blends the ancient traditions of Native American storytelling with the modern medium of glass sculpture, making his work both visually stunning and deeply meaningful. Recently, Daybreak Star Radio’s DJ Ev had the privilege of sitting down with Preston Singletary to discuss his journey as an artist, his connection to Native spirituality, and his ongoing efforts to elevate Indigenous art within the fine art world.

From Music to Glass Art: The Creative Evolution of Preston Singletary

Growing up in Seattle, Preston was initially drawn to music, mastering both the piano and the guitar. The city’s rich artistic environment shaped his early creative explorations. However, his path took a pivotal turn after high school, when a close friend introduced him to the world of glassblowing. What started as an interest quickly became his life’s work.

For the next twenty years, Preston dedicated himself to the art of glassblowing, working nearly seven days a week. Despite the demanding schedule, he remained committed to honing his craft and exploring new techniques. His work eventually evolved to incorporate his Tlingit heritage, blending cultural narratives with contemporary artistic expression.

The Influence of Native Spirituality in Art

A significant turning point in Preston’s artistic journey was his introduction to the sweat lodge ceremony by his mentor and friend, Joe David. This profound experience deepened his connection to Native spirituality, influencing both his personal growth and artistic direction.

One of the most important lessons he took from this experience was the realization that once you become the keeper of cultural knowledge, it is your responsibility to understand, respect, and protect it. This understanding transformed his creative process, allowing him to craft pieces that not only celebrate his heritage but also serve as a means of preserving Indigenous traditions for future generations.

Breaking Barriers: Indigenous Art in the Fine Art World

For years, Native American art has been underrepresented in the fine art world, often categorized separately from contemporary and mainstream art forms. However, Preston has been instrumental in challenging these barriers and pushing Indigenous art into the spotlight.

Through his glass sculptures, he demonstrates that Native art is both timeless and evolving—rooted in history yet continuously innovating. He has witnessed a growing appreciation for Indigenous media and art, a trend he hopes will continue to elevate Native voices in major artistic spaces.

Advice for Aspiring Native Artists

For young Indigenous artists looking to make their mark, Preston’s advice is simple yet powerful:

✔ Stay open to inspiration—it can come from anywhere. ✔ Persevere through challenges—artistic growth takes time and effort. ✔ Dig deep into your own story—your heritage, culture, and experiences are valuable sources of creativity.

As he emphasizes, “You never know where inspiration might come from, but when you find it, embrace it fully.”

Explore Preston Singletary’s Work

Preston Singletary’s incredible glass art can be found in galleries across the United States. His work continues to bridge traditional Indigenous storytelling with modern artistic innovation, making him one of the most influential Native artists today.

Check out Preston Singletary’s official website to explore his latest projects and exhibitions.

Final Thoughts

Preston Singletary’s journey is a testament to the power of art as a vehicle for cultural preservation and storytelling. Through his dedication to both glass art and Indigenous traditions, he is not only crafting breathtaking works but also ensuring that Native voices and histories continue to shine in the art world.

For aspiring artists, his message is clear: Embrace your heritage, persevere through challenges, and let your creativity tell your story.