Andy Koupal

"From an early age, music has played an important and formative role in my life. It was my first exposure to the arts, and there are so many parallels in my approach to being an artist today that I learned playing music through the years. Even though I don’t sit down at the drums as much as I did when I was younger, I’m still constantly listening to music in and out of the studio.

When I’m working in the hot shop blowing glass, or coldworking pieces, I generally get into a rhythm. There are a lot of repetitive movements to the processes, but the material always requires responsiveness, so music that lets me get into a groove and stay alert is great. Lately, when doing this type of work I listen to a lot of instrumental music with strong rhythm sections with extended improvisation. Grant Green, Ahmad Jamal, Robert Glasper and Herbie Hancock are among my all-time favorites who have a lot of material that fits this vein. You’ll also catch me listening to a lot of DJ’s/producers/electronic musicians such as DJ Harrison, Kiefer, Kenny Beats, J Dilla, Beck, etc. 

I’m also inspired by the musicianship and storytelling of Blues, R&B, and Americana roots. The Band, Junior Kimbrough, Doc Watson, Taj Mahal, and Aretha Franklin are some of my favorites right now."

Detroit-based artist, designer, and educator Andy Koupal has over 15 years of experience working with glass. He co-owns and operates out of a hot glass studio in the city and serves as an adjunct faculty member at the College for Creative Studies, a position he’s held since 2013.