Josh Raiffe is a Brooklyn-based glass artist known for his innovative creations that blur the lines between art and fashion. Born into a family of toy designers and inventors, Raiffe continues the family tradition of bringing joy through creativity, but with his unique medium of hot glass.

Education and Early Career

Raiffe earned his BFA from Tyler School of Art in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. During his studies, he worked at Belle Mead Hot Glass in New Jersey, producing blown chandelier parts and teaching classes at the Crefeld School in Philadelphia. Upon graduating, Raiffe received the Steve Stormer Award and the Penland Partner Scholarship, enabling him to attend the Penland School of Craft in North Carolina.

Artistic Development

Raiffe’s passion for self-expression drives his artistic process. He creates in a space where emotion and instinct take precedence over language and rationality. His work is primarily inspired by personal relationships and emotions such as love, conflict, anger, and intimacy.

Notable Works and Collaborations

One of Raiffe’s most notable creations is his glass interpretation of the Coperni Swipe Bag. This project, which caught the attention of both art and fashion enthusiasts, was inspired by the painting of Saint Denis of Paris. Raiffe’s design aimed to create a halo effect around the wearer’s hand, revealing a sense of divinity.

Exhibitions and Recognition

Raiffe’s work has been exhibited at several prestigious venues, including:

• Philadelphia Art Alliance
• The Sculpture Gym
• Spirit of the Artist in Philadelphia
• 555 Gallery in Boston
  
  

His creations were also featured in New Glass Review 38, The Corning Museum of Glass’ yearly survey of cutting-edge artworks.

Teaching and Collaborations

Throughout his career, Raiffe has taught glass classes at various institutions:

• Tyler School of Art
• East Falls Glassworks in Philadelphia
• Brooklyn Glass
• UrbanGlass in New York
  
  

He has also collaborated with other artists, assisting in glass fabrication for Thaddeus Wolf, Rob Wynne, Mitchiko Sakano, Jamie Harris, and Deborah Czeresko.

Celebrity Recognition

Raiffe’s glass works have gained popularity among celebrities, with pieces owned by Dojacat, Kylie Jenner, JT, Beth Dewoody, Olivia Song, and Snoop Dogg. His glass bags have been featured in high-profile events, including Coperni’s A/W 2022 fashion show.

Artistic Philosophy

Despite his celebrity clientele, Raiffe creates art to be enjoyed by the masses. He hopes people will use his work to express themselves, adorning their spaces and bodies with objects that resonate with them.

Josh Raiffe continues to push the boundaries of glass art, creating pieces that evoke emotion and challenge the traditional perceptions of glass as a medium. His unique blend of art and fashion has established him as a rising star in the contemporary glass art scene.