Patrick Vrolyk

Patrick Vrolyk has been blowing glass for over 25 years. Inspired by the colourful pipes he saw on Grateful Dead tour lots, he tried his hand at the craft and quickly discovered his talent and affinity for it. Under the moniker Redbeard Glass he became a legend in Canada’s burgeoning underground glass scene. His heady smokeware sculptures were sought after by collectors worldwide, and he was able to live his dream, supporting his family with his art. Using hand tools, a torch and an annealing oven, Patrick melts and shapes Borosilicate glass, which is a very durable glass, mostly used in scientific lab ware.

In 2017, a retrospective of his work, titled “Glasslands” was featured at the Penticton Art Gallery. In 2025, Patrick relocated to Eastend, SK where he continues to blow glass, now focusing primarily on drinkware, jewellery, and ornaments. In 2026, a collection of his glass was featured in a show entitled “Raise Your Glass: a Celebration of Handmade Glass Drinkware” in Shaunavon, SK.