Roland Elliot-Berry’s life took an unexpected and vibrant turn at the age of 73. This former brewery owner and children’s book illustrator found himself thrust into the limelight, not for his past accomplishments, but for a hobby he rekindled during the COVID-19 pandemic: stained glass making. His journey, fueled by his daughter’s secret TikTok posts, is a testament to the power of social media, the enduring allure of traditional crafts, and the ageless pursuit of passion.
A Daughter’s Secret and a Viral Sensation
Elliot-Berry’s story began with a playful prank by his daughter. Unbeknownst to him, she started filming his stained glass creations and sharing them on TikTok. One particular video clip showcasing his intricate work went viral, catapulting the unsuspecting artist into the digital spotlight. His initial reaction? “I was horrified,” he jokes in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. “She never told me she was doing this.” While the surprise might have been initially unsettling, the outcome was undeniably positive. The viral video sparked a wave of interest in Elliot-Berry’s work, leading to a deluge of commissions for both stained glass pieces and painted portraits. This unexpected surge in demand transformed his quiet retirement plans into a thriving second career.
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A Lifelong Passion Reignited
Elliot-Berry’s love affair with stained glass began decades earlier, at the age of 24. He honed his skills under the tutelage of Edward Payne, a renowned stained glass artist who notably restored the magnificent windows of Gloucester Cathedral. This foundational training instilled in him a deep appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship of the medium. However, life led him down a different path. He pursued a career in illustrating children’s books, showcasing his creative talents in a different form. Later, he ventured into the world of brewing, opening his own brewery. It was the closure of this business during the pandemic that prompted him to revisit his long-dormant passion for stained glass.
Keeping a Dying Art Alive
Elliot-Berry’s newfound success has not only provided him with a fulfilling career in his later years but also given him a platform to advocate for a craft he deeply cherishes. Stained glass making, he notes, is becoming increasingly rare in the U.K. He views this decline with concern and has made it his mission to revive interest in this traditional art form. To this end, he now conducts regular stained glass making classes, welcoming both large groups and individual students. The overwhelming response to his TikTok videos, with comments like “This is so beautiful” and “Wishing nothing but the best for your father and his classes,” further fuels his desire to share his knowledge and inspire a new generation of stained glass artists. He sees the vibrant colors and enduring nature of stained glass as something magical, a legacy he hopes to pass on.
Embracing a Busy and Fulfilling “Retirement”
For Elliot-Berry, retirement is not synonymous with slowing down. “I’m never going to retire,” he declares. “I don’t understand the concept of being bored.” This sentiment is evident in his packed schedule, filled with commissions, classes, and the constant exploration of his artistic talents. His story is a powerful reminder that age is just a number and that pursuing one’s passions can lead to unexpected and fulfilling opportunities at any stage of life.
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From Unexpected Fame to a Mission with Purpose
Roland Elliot-Berry’s journey from a surprised viral sensation to a passionate advocate for a dying art form is a heartwarming tale of reinvention and purpose. His story underscores the unpredictable nature of life and the boundless potential that can be unlocked when passion and opportunity collide. Through his vibrant stained glass creations and his dedication to teaching, Elliot-Berry is not only leaving a lasting legacy in the world of art but also inspiring others to pursue their dreams, no matter their age. His story is a shining example of how a simple hobby can blossom into a fulfilling and impactful second act. His unexpected fame, sparked by a TikTok video, has not only brought him personal joy but also allowed him to contribute to the preservation of a beautiful and endangered art form.
