Dylan Christopher Atkinson-Betz (1989 – 2020)

Born on December 13, 1989, in Tacoma, Washington, Dylan leaves behind his father, Chris Betz, his Mother, Theresa Atkinson, and three siblings, Sally Betz, Sam Betz and Wylie Betz.

Dylan was an artist from a young age, and he began working with glass in 2001 at the Hilltop Artists in Residence at Jason Lee Middle School in Tacoma at the age of 12. His first paying job was as a member of their production team. He attended Tacoma’s School of the Arts, focusing on the visual arts, especially drawing and illustration. He went on to receive an Associates Degree in Graphic Design from Seattle Central College. Dylan went on to work at many studios, including Glassybaby and Glass Eye Studio in Seattle, Washington. He moved to Oakland, California with Glassybaby, where he helped to set up their Berkley location and train countless glassblowers. No matter where he went, Dylan impressed people with his friendly nature and attention to detail. Most recently, Dylan worked at Monarch Glass Studio in Kansas City, Missouri, from 2019 until his passing. While there, he began to branch out into stained glass, as well as becoming an integral part of the Kansas City glass community. Dylan taught countless classes and lessons, impressing students with his patience and consistent good will. He also produced lighting, home goods, installations, and other commissions. He had the rare talent of being good at almost anything he tried.

In his own artwork, Dylan painted on glass using enamels, and enjoyed making whimsical glass sculptures, or collaborating with friends. His ink drawings gained accolades from a young age and continued to amaze viewers through the whole of his career.