Matthew Cummings is a visionary who successfully blends the worlds of art and craft brewing. With formal education in glass sculpture—holding both a bachelor’s degree and a Master of Fine Arts—he made a significant impact on the local art and brewing scene when he founded Pretentious Glass Co. in downtown Knoxville, Tennessee, in 2012. However, Cummings’ journey took a bit of an unconventional turn into the realm of brewing. A self-proclaimed “broke artist,” he found joy in crafting his own beers after discovering a way to create quality brews that wouldn’t break the bank.
Motivated by a craving for good beer at reasonable prices, Cummings began his homebrewing endeavors that same year. His introduction to the craft beer world came via Zombie Dust, a pale ale renowned for its flavor, brewed by Indiana’s 3 Floyds Brewing. For Cummings, beer wasn’t just a beverage; it became an artistic expression in its own right, leading to him diving deep into the literature surrounding brewing techniques.
Fast forward to 2016, Cummings took a bold step; he opened a beer bar adjacent to his glass studio, which would later evolve into Pretentious Beer Co. a year thereafter. This venture uniquely combined his glass-making skills with brewing talent, creating an immersive experience for patrons. Cummings claims, “We are the only place in the world where people can drink beer made in-house, out of glasses made in-house.” This blurring of lines between the creation and consumption of his craft allows patrons to not only enjoy unique beers but also witness the artistry that goes into both the beverages and the vessels that contain them.
A distinctive aspect of Cummings’ brewing philosophy is his belief in the pivotal role glass shape plays in enhancing beer flavor. While most research focuses on wine glass design, Cummings bravely took on the task of customizing glassware specifically for his beers. Drawing inspiration from traditional Belgian beer culture, where every style has a distinct glass, he began meticulously testing various designs to determine how they could amplify the unique flavors of his brews.
At Pretentious Glass Co., Cummings offers a wide array of glassware, including up to 30 flagship designs and hundreds of one-off creations. The customization ranges from handmade decanters to Christmas ornaments, appealing to a variety of customer tastes. For those eager to dive into the glassmaking process themselves, he even offers classes, creating a participatory experience that deepens appreciation for the art form.
Cummings underscores the satisfaction derived from crafting specific pieces, revealing his two favorites: the Foamy Boi and the Pilsner Glass. The Foamy Boi, characterized by its textured diamond design and exhilarating handle, represents dramatic craftsmanship. Cummings notes the thrill of executing such a challenging design, highlighting its uniqueness and the pleasure it brings to its creator.
Conversely, the Pilsner Glass might seem deceptively simple, given its classic design. Yet, Cummings describes it as exceptionally rewarding due to its ability to enhance the experience of drinking a pilsner. The glass’ subtle flare is particularly designed to maintain a fluffy head, representing a well-executed pour that showcases both his craftsmanship and his understanding of beer presentation. Its understated elegance allows it to stand out amidst the dynamic designs of his line, embodying what he describes as “unique but approachable.”
The collaboration between art and brewing in Cummings’ enterprises provides more than just a profit-driven venture; it delivers an experience. The juxtaposition of watching glassblowing while sipping a freshly crafted beer invites patrons into a world of creativity and craftsmanship. The ability to see the artistry behind both the beer and the glass creates a unique connection, allowing visitors to appreciate the labor and thought behind every sip they take.
Matthew Cummings demonstrates that creativity knows no bounds. His dual commitment to art and brewing showcases the beauty of interdisciplinary ventures and how passion can translate into unforgettable experiences. By transforming his unique vision into tangible art and craft, he not only satisfies the palate but also enriches the cultural landscape, proving that creativity in beverage making can indeed be as profound as in glass sculpting.