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 I am an impassioned flute maker who lives near the Rocky Mountains in Denver, Colorado.
After spending nearly 20 years in the corporate world, I knew I needed to make a change in my life. Corporate life no longer resonated with me and I started searching for my next journey.
I first heard the sound of the Native American Style Flute in Canyon De Chelly, Arizona. It was magical. I was drawn to the beautiful voice and spirit of that first flute song. I had to learn more, I had to be a part of it, so I started playing the flute whenever I could. It was peaceful and meditative and made my heart happy. I was home.
As I learned more about playing and the history of the flute, I became inspired to learn how to make them. This seemed like a way for me to complete the circle of my flute journey. At first I started making flutes from wood. With my interest in ceramics I felt like it was a natural progression to create them from clay. Clay has all four elements of the earth that are sacred: earth, water, fire, and wind. I knew this would be an important medium for my flutes. While I still enjoy working with wood and creating wood flutes, my focus at this point in my journey is clay.
Most of the ceramic flutes I make are fired using an ancient technique called pit firing, which gives each of them a very unique voice and coloring pattern. As a result, no two flutes will ever look the same. I make both Woodlands and Plains style flutes, and tune them to the pentatonic scale, Mode 1 and 4.
One of the greatest joys in my life is to hear someone playing a flute that has been created from my hands. Each flute is a treasure and it honors me when it continues its journey with someone.
As far as I know, I am one of the few Native American Style flute makers who create from clay. Although I am not Native American or tribal affiliated, I have a deep respect for the Native American culture and way of life.
I am grateful to all of my friends for their support, encouragement and guidance as I continue to evolve as a flute maker. I hope that I can return the gift to all of you.
John Kulias
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