Artist profile: Doug Frates

Artist: Doug Frates
Website: Doug Frates

Usually I profile glass artists who make wearables on this site, but I had to make an exception for Doug, because as you’ll see, his work is exceptional in every way! I think you’ll really enjoy reading what he has to say about his artwork, his process, and his business tips!  He stresses how much hard work goes into building a successful business, and that is true in any creative field.

Doug, how did you decide to simply use your name for your business?
I picked the name of the business because as a High End artist I felt that being a brand with my name is really the only way to go. You speak to so many companies that started in a different name and wish they used their name. It just makes it more recognizable like a signature (no arrogance involved).

What is your creative process like?
The creative process happens by sitting down and coming up with a functional series. I will draw a picture where ever I am my sketch book follows me almost everywhere and from the take the creativity from past experiences and pieces to create new pieces that still have my signature look and appeal. I like my work too not only be fun and creative but festive and usable. The pieces that are created should be enjoyable “conversation piece” and I like them to bring a little brightness to the Collectors day.

When I work it is either for a commission or for product so I pretty much work seven days a week either in my studio or in the shop. Both are different processes. It just depends on how I can plan or budget my time.

What kind of training did you have which helped you achieve your current level of artistry?
My experience primarily comes form a Man out of Tucson Arizona named Tom Philabaum. He not only gave me the opportunity to learn but also really made me learn the basics. Through this process his staff made me a firm believer in learning the basics in glassblowing. The basics in turn help you to be more creative because you learn how to manipulate the different consistencies of glass itself. I also served in the Marines From 2001 to 2009 partially in the reserve’s and Spend a year in Iraq during the invasion as Part of the first marine divisions push. This gave me the discipline to learn how to actually blow glass at a professional level.

What inspires you to keep going when the work gets frustrating or tough?
When times are tough I remain doing the things that work because I know that things will turn around but just don’t know when. To make it in this business you just have to work a little harder. Many people think that artist are “lazy” and the live a free life style. But reality at least from my perspective you are really working almost all the time. Whether it be traveling, Packing, Producing, and Getting new clients and so on. Sure you get gratification but sometimes the work is just work. There is a major difference between being a hobbyist a professional.

What is your best piece of advice for those who would like to rise in their level of artistry?
My advice for those who want to rise to a different level are go out there and get it. It is not just going to happen for you. Be yourself and try to find somebody that is a SUCCESSFUL (There are plenty that are not for some reason) artist that can train you and pay you. But typically they are not going to find you. As artists we tend to be passive and not aggressive but the art industry is a dog eat dog world and if you want to succeed you need to go get it yourself. You need to learn from your mistakes try to make the right decisions for you and what might benefit you and make yourself better. Pulling the trigger is hard but learn form your experiences especially in this economy.

What takes up the majority of your time besides your art?
Real work for my company and how to better my company For example I do everything like packing shipping, paperwork, PR, and producing. It is hard work. And not very much fun sometimes but that is part of life. It can’t always be fun. That is what my time is pretty much spent doing.

What’s your favorite comfort food and other activities?
My favorite food is whatever is in the fridge; my favorite books are The Dove by Robin Lee Graham and, It’s Not about the bike by Lance Armstrong. I tend to read more motivational stories and stories about perseverance. Real life, interests me. My favorite color is all that uniquely collaborate. Favorite hobby, enjoying new experiences.