Dylan Martinez’s artistic journey began in 2007, when he embarked on a transformative journey through academia. Amidst his pursuit of a physical science major, Martinez stumbled upon the art of glassmaking as an elective. What began as a mere academic choice burgeoned into a lifelong passion, as he deftly merged the scientific precision of his studies with the boundless creativity of artistic expression.
Water Bags, glass, from 10-16” high x 6-7” wide x 4½-5” deep
He went on to earn a master of fine art degree from Indiana’s Ball State University in 2017, and studied with master craftsmen both in the United States and abroad, including a transformative residency with Venetian glass artisans in Murano, Italy, in 2019.
Water Balloons, glass, from 4- 4½” long x 3-3½” wide x 3-3½” high
Today, Martinez is a sculptor exploring the tension between reality and illusion through meticulously crafted glass sculptures. By mimicking fragile, ephemeral objects—such as water balloons and plastic bags filled with water—his work challenges the viewer’s perception of materiality. Glass, a medium that is both hard and solid yet inherently delicate, serves as a paradox, amplifying the contrast between what appears temporary and what is, in fact, permanent.
Goldfish Cracker Water Bag, glass and ceramic, ed. 240 of 300, 12 x 6 x 4¼”
“Through subtle distortions and hyper-realistic detail, my sculptures evoke visceral reactions, prompting viewers to question their own assumptions about weight, texture and fragility,” says Martinez. “The interplay between the familiar and the unexpected creates a space for contemplation—inviting curiosity while simultaneously disrupting expectations. By capturing objects often associated with childhood and fleeting moments, my work taps into a sense of nostalgia, blurring the line between memory and material reality. In doing so, it offers an open-ended dialogue about perception, impermanence, and the ever-shifting boundaries between what we believe to be real and what is merely an illusion.” —
Want to See More?
www.dylanmartinezglass.com
Find me on Instagram: @_dylanmartinez
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