Artist Bio

Courtney Branam – Glassmaker

   Courtney Branam was born and raised in the Rocket City, Houston, Texas .  Originally trained as an industrial draftsman, Courtney wanted to build bridges.  In 1993 Courtney made the switch to two dimensional, graphic design, which catered to his high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail, yet offered more freedom in the realm of creativity.  After experimenting with three dimensional design, such as jewelry and sculpture, Courtney found hot glass and before too long was skipping design class to be in the glass shop. 

In 1998, after graduating from Texas Tech. University, Courtney moved up to Alaska, and in four short years, advanced from lowly apprentice to head gaffer at Alaska Glass Studio, responsible for the production of everything from ornaments and paper weights to one of a kind works of art.  During this time Courtney traveled to Seattle , Washington , Corning , New York , and Melbourne , Australia to study with world renowned artists Karen Willembrink, Ben Edols, Kathy Elliott, and Martin Blank.  In August of 2002, Courtney left Alaska to explore the world, spend time with his family, and pursue his own endeavors as an independent studio artist.

Recent activities have included; a short stay as visiting artist at Midnight Sun Hot Glass in Homer, Alaska; and a not so short stay as visiting artist at Millspaugh Studio in spring Branch, Texas.  Where in addition to making his own work, Courtney collaborated with local artist and taught glass blowing classes.  In June 2003, Courtney will be attending the international Glass Art Society in Seattle , Washington .

When he is not making art Courtney enjoys reading science fiction novels, hiking and camping, and listening to music ranging from bluegrass to black metal.