Early Life and Background

Dan Friday, a member of the Lummi Nation, hails from the Puget Sound region of Washington State. Growing up immersed in the rich cultural heritage of the Lummi Nation, Friday was encouraged by his family to engage in creative activities from an early age. This cultural backdrop significantly influences his work, which often incorporates themes and images from his Coast Salish heritage.

Artistic Journey

Friday’s journey into the world of glass art began at the Pilchuck Glass School, where he transitioned from a career in mechanics to glassblowing. His transformative encounter with glassblowing marked a pivotal moment in his life, leading him to realize his passion and calling. Over the past two decades, Friday has honed his craft under the mentorship of renowned artists such as Dale Chihuly, Paul Marioni, and Preston Singletary.

Artistic Style and Themes

Dan Friday’s work is characterized by its blend of contemporary artistry and indigenous motifs. He often works with simple themes and forms, employing subtle silhouettes to create his glass totems. His narrative pieces serve as personal expressions or reflections on life events, often carrying profound underlying statements. Friday’s art is a testament to the enduring spirit of his heritage, reimagined for the modern world.

Teaching and Residencies

Friday has shared his knowledge and skills through teaching positions at the University of Washington, Evergreen State College, Pilchuck Glass School, and the Haystack Craft Center. He has also participated in several prestigious residencies, including those at the Museum of Glass in Tacoma, the Burke Museum in Seattle, the Corning Museum in New York, and the Dream Community in Taipei, Taiwan.

Awards and Recognitions

Throughout his career, Dan Friday has received numerous awards and fellowships, including:

• Bill Holm Grant from the Burke Museum
• People’s Choice Award from the Bellevue Art Museum
• Artist Trust Fellowship
• Discovery Fellowship through the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA)
  
  

Exhibitions and Collections

Friday’s work has been featured in various exhibitions and is included in many museum and private collections worldwide. Notable exhibitions include:

• Future Artifacts at the Museum of Northwest Art, La Conner, Washington (July 3 – October 10, 2021)
• Representations at Blue Rain Gallery (Santa Fe), Stonington Gallery (Seattle), Ainsley Gallery (Toronto), Habatat (West Palm, Florida), and Schantz Galleries (Stockbridge, Massachusetts)
  
  

Media Appearances

Dan Friday gained wider recognition through his appearance on season 3 of Blown Away, a reality glassblowing competition television series available on Netflix.

Conclusion

Dan Friday’s journey from a rebellious youth to an accomplished glass artist underscores the transformative power of art. His work, deeply rooted in his Lummi heritage, continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. Through his teaching, exhibitions, and public demonstrations, Friday not only preserves but also innovatively extends the legacy of Coast Salish art into contemporary glass artistry.