David Exelby is one of the most down-to-earth people you’ll ever meet. Funny thing is, when he’s not on the torch, his job takes him way off the ground. Come along and learn more about this professional arborist, also known as XLB Glass.
When did you get started on the torch?
The first time I started working on the torch, I was 21 years old. At the time, I was staying in a 1968 Gillig Brothers school bus. There was a lampworking studio on the other side of the driveway. I was still working full time for a glass artist in Mukilteo making garden art. I would come home from the hot studio and get on the torch and work until I couldn’t see straight. I did this for about one year before I switched to working on the torch full time.
What and who inspired you?
I would say the what of my inspiration would be nature. I have always been inspired by the colors of shapes found naturally in our environment. As far as who has been an inspiration to me, I would have to say it would be my friend Sam Alderson.
We know you have a lot of dedication to your family and home life; Tell us more about that.
Yes, family is very important to me. My wife and I have five children total. We just welcomed our newest addition this September. Heidi did work on the torch with me during the first year I had my business running. She was a huge help in getting my product on the shelves and social marketing for me. In the early years, when I was still peddling, my oldest son would often ask if he could carry my case filled with pendants and nonfunctional glass. It was a way for him to feel involved in the family business.
Your functional work speaks for itself. Can you tell us more about the memorial pieces you’ve been working on?
As much as I love and enjoy making functional glass art, I found a much deeper satisfaction in providing memorial pieces for people who have lost loved ones. When I was 18, my older brother passed away unexpectedly. I held onto his ashes for quite a few years before I felt confident enough to try. I still remember the emotional charge and electricity running through my body the first time I worked with ashes.
What’s your go-to torch setup?
Right now, my go-to torch is a GTT Phantom two-stage with a foot pedal. I also run a Smith mini torch, and I believe it is a Hornet Tip on that guy. I am ready for an upgrade to something with a little more firepower, maybe a GTT Mirage.
Where can people find your pieces or contact you for custom/memorial artwork?
I do not have a website, but I have an Instagram and a Facebook. That is the best way for people to reach out to commission any custom work.
