We recently connected with NAN LU and have shared our conversation below.
NAN, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
I first realized that I wanted to pursue an artistic path during my undergraduate years, when I encountered glass as a material. Before that, I had an interest in art, but I hadn’t yet found the medium that truly resonated with me. I still remember being in the studio, watching glass transform under heat from something rigid and solid into something fluid and alive. In that moment, I felt its dual nature—fragile yet strong—and I came to see glass as almost a living presence, capable of carrying my reflections on the rhythms of life and the fleeting nature of existence. From then on, I decided to make glass my primary creative language and to explore its expressive possibilities on a professional level.
Of course, turning glassmaking into one’s profession is a considerable challenge for most people, and it has been the same for me. But during a study trip to Venice, Italy, I witnessed the passion and devotion of local glass artisans. Their dedication to both craft and art left a strong impression on me, and that experience strengthened my resolve to follow glass as my lifelong creative path.
NAN, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am a glass artist and currently a graduate student specializing in craft glass, with a focus on the pâte de verre casting technique. My creative practice centers on technical research—by exploring different forms and expressions within the same technique, I aim to uncover new possibilities for visual expression in glass.
My works are often inspired by unusual plants and animals, serving as a medium through which I create imaginative, fantastical creatures. Unlike traditional glass works, many of my pieces deliberately move away from common characteristics such as transparency or reflectiveness. I hope that when viewers engage with my work, they can set aside preconceived notions of what glass “should” look like and experience it with an open, unbiased perspective.
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Looking back, I feel that observing established artists at work and attending exhibitions by fellow creatives has been among the most valuable experiences for my growth. For example, watching glass artisans in Venice was truly eye-opening. Their focus on technique, attention to detail, and understanding of materials taught me lessons that no book or tutorial could provide. Similarly, attending exhibitions by other artists allows me to see a wide variety of creative approaches and expressions, which continually inspires me and pushes me to expand my own artistic practice.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?
One thing non-creatives often struggle to understand is the level of experimentation, uncertainty, and patience involved in a creative journey. For example, in my glass work, many ideas don’t succeed on the first try—or even the tenth. Each piece requires careful planning, trial, and adjustment, and sometimes the result is unpredictable despite all the effort.
I think it’s important for people to realize that creativity isn’t just about inspiration or talent—it’s also about persistence, problem-solving, and learning from failure. Sharing this perspective might help non-creatives appreciate the dedication and thought that go into every artistic work.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: lunan.glass
Image Credits
Self