For Chris Piazza, glass isn’t just a medium—it’s a lifelong passion that has shaped his artistic journey and fueled his entrepreneurial spirit. As an established glass blower and the visionary founder behind CannaDevices, Chris embodies the fusion of artistry and advocacy, intertwining his love for glass with a mission to revolutionize the cannabis industry.
His fascination with glass began early in life, sparked by a solid glass egg in his mother’s possession. However, it was a serendipitous encounter during his high school years—a moment of revelation ignited by a color-changing glass pipe—that set his destiny in motion. Instantly captivated, he declared to friends, “This is what I want to do, I want to make these.”
Founding CannaDevices:
The genesis of CannaDevices wasn’t just a business venture; it was the convergence of opportunity and Chris’s unwavering passion. Collaborating with a partner who shared his vision, Chris seized the chance to establish an American glass distribution hub dedicated to serving dispensaries. Leveraging his existing catalog and expertise, he seamlessly transitioned from focusing on traditional smoke shops to meeting the needs of dispensaries.
While CannaDevices’ mission has evolved, its core essence remains rooted in supporting American artists within the burgeoning cannabis landscape. Serving as a conduit, the company provides a safe avenue for accessory brands to access dispensaries while empowering these dispensaries to develop their unique brands through bespoke products.
Impact and Perspectives:
The journey with CannaDevices has broadened Chris’s horizons, fostering a deeper appreciation for the intricate world of distributors. Moreover, it revealed the pervasive mystery surrounding glassblowing within mainstream discourse, highlighting the need to demystify this intricate art form.
Chris advocates for the power of repetition in mastering glassblowing—an art where production sustains the craft. Emphasizing that while creating unique pieces is thrilling, building a brand holds the key to long-term success.
His glassblowing teacher, @roneglass, remains a cornerstone, imparting not just technical expertise but invaluable life lessons. His parents, siblings, and the collective mosaic of individuals surrounding him serve as wellsprings of wisdom and inspiration. Reflecting on pivotal moments, Chris underscores the significance of persistence. A critical juncture nearly saw him abandoning his craft, but his father’s advice—rooted in acknowledging the investment of time and unwavering commitment—rekindled his perseverance, leading to eventual success.
Amidst an array of crafted marvels, one piece stands out—a rig encapsulating a “flip disk” technique that transforms colored rods into a picturesque sunrise/sunset within the can. A testament to his artistry, this creation remains Chris’s cherished masterpiece.
In the fusion of artistry and advocacy, Chris Piazza has not only elevated glassblowing to an art form but has also carved a pioneering path within the cannabis industry. Through CannaDevices, he continues to bridge the gap between artistic expression and the evolving cannabis culture, leaving an indelible mark as an artisan and a visionary entrepreneur.
