October 3, 2025 International Trending News Stories

The Making of the Master: John Moran’s Journey To Becoming a Glassblowing Legend

The art of glassblowing has been around for thousands of years. It is a craft that requires both creative vision and physical skills to create something beautiful from molten glass, but only a few have achieved the level of mastery that John Moran has attained. Moran is an American glass and mixed-media artist living and working in Belgium. His exceptional glass-blown sculptures reflecting current events, politics, and society are on one side, but the way his life has slowly shaped and transformed in the hands of time is a tale to be told. 

Originally from Philadelphia, Moran was born into a working-class family to a nurse mother and a psychiatrist father. Moran has always had a knack for the arts despite his background, but this flair has developed into a passion after a major blow. Moran’s father passed away when he was 10 years old, though it is a terrible thing to experience as  a child, it ultimately spurred him on to take chances and pursue his dreams.

Just Like Him. Photo: Marble Media Official, Netflix, David Leyes

American Idols. Photo: Delaware Contemporary

American Idols. Photo: Delaware ContemporaryAmerican Idols.

American Idols. Photo: Delaware Contemporary

American Idols. Photo: Delaware Contemporary

American Idols. Photo: Delaware Contemporary

American Idols. Photo: Delaware Contemporary

The journey was not easy, and it took him many years of hard work and dedication to become a legend in the glass-blowing world. During all these years, Moran worked hard to improve his skills by doing side jobs and working in studios all over the US. He also spent a year and a half teaching English in China, which was an eye-opening experience that exposed him to various cultures and taught him a lot. However, becoming an artist in residenceat WheatonArts was a defining moment in his life, giving him the opportunity to focus solely on his work. 

At WheatonArts, Moran was given the chance to develop his skills and refine his craft through practice, focus, and dedicated time in the studio. During this period, he created one of  his most iconic  works of art,the installation of the American Presidents. Titled: American Idols. While creating this work, he developed unique and impressive techniques that helped him achieve mastery, making him a recognized namein the glass-making world. 

Soon after completing his MFA and perfecting his techniques for making large, figurative  sculptures out of glass and mixed media, Moran relocated to Belgium in 2013 and established Gent Glas, a public glass studio with a focus on the local artist community. 

Slowly transforming from an unknown artist to a glassblowing legend, Moran has come far in his journey. His remarkable works of art have been featured in numerous publications and exhibitions. Moreover, he recently made a major splash as he

became the winner of Netflix’s Blown Away Season 3, which earned him not only worldwide success but also a residency at the famous Corning Museum of Art. 

Visit his instagram @johnsleepymoran , or his website, Backdoorart, to learn more about Moran and his work. 

Related Posts

How to Be a Self-Sovereign Woman and a Mother in a Challenging World by Professional Artist Danielle Zirkelbach

March 26, 2023

March 26, 2023

In today’s challenging world, it is tough to be free of the constraints of social media, societal pressure, and traditions....

“Yoga for Flexibility”, Adriana Lee’s First Book Has Been a Success

December 2, 2022

December 2, 2022

Following your passion and working hard to achieve your goals brings a purpose to your life. And to be willing...

5 Successful Pro Tips Shared By Jacqueline Pappillion For Entrepreneurs

June 7, 2022

June 7, 2022

Jacqueline Pappillion is a fashion model, actress, and influencer. She is the founder of her own brand IAMJACQUELINEPAPPILLION and a...

Discover How to Lean Into Abundance When Changing Your Eating Patterns

August 9, 2022

August 9, 2022

An abundance mindset refers to the belief that there is plenty of everything for everybody in the world. It also...

7 Effective Entrepreneurial Skills for a Successful Fashion Career

March 1, 2023

March 1, 2023

Fashion entrepreneurship is a vital industry component in many ways. The market requires business leaders who understand what consumers want...

Carla Virgos Believes Education and Awareness Can Change How People View Marine Wildlife

February 24, 2023

February 24, 2023

The world as we know it today is thoroughly divided. The prevalent mentality is us vs. them, and the by-product...

How Mitch Durfee, the Author of “Serve 2 Win”, is Helping People Make a Living and a Life

August 7, 2021

August 7, 2021

When Mitch Durfee developed a habit to read a new book every week for 5 consecutive years, he came across...

Get To Know Dr. Cameron Chesnut, One of the Top Eyelid and Facial Plastic Surgeons

February 1, 2023

February 1, 2023

Nowadays, when self-acceptance and self-esteem seem more dependent on looks and appearance than the overall personality, cosmetic surgery and getting...

Socialite and Entertainment Influencer Renee Ash Talks about Being Your Own Advocate

November 3, 2022

November 3, 2022

In a world and collective society like the one we live in, it is hard to stand up to the...

Get Wander-Fully Lost With Mikaela Janalyn as She Travels With Style

July 5, 2022

July 5, 2022

The best travel blogs on the internet offer amazing travel tips, photography, and video content. Some of the best bloggers...

TEDx Speaker Peter Sage Shares the 4 Daily Habits Essential For Success

April 15, 2022

April 15, 2022

Peter Sage is a renowned speaker and coach. He is the author of the best-seller “The Inside Track: An Inspirational...

Steve Sidd’s Take on Tech Innovation in Hospitality and Catering Business

March 1, 2023

March 1, 2023

Technology and business have become inextricably interwoven. Technology is the most empowering innovation that humans have acquired. This is why...

5 Tips and Tactics to Boost Your Career Development in Real Estate

February 25, 2022

February 25, 2022

Every industry has its challenges and obstacles to resist the sudden success of any individual. Among these challenges, the most...

Gaby Wall Street – Teaching Latinas to Thrive During The Crisis

March 24, 2021

March 24, 2021

It’s no secret we are facing one of the most challenging financial times of the last few decades as we...

Beauty Industry Mogul, Ludmila Padre Cardoso Reminisces about Her Transition Into The Business World

August 25, 2023

August 25, 2023

Many people are stepping into the business world to fulfill their goals and objectives. The business industry allows people to...