Rapolas Grazys, Lava Drops Guitars – Creating musical works of art inspired by nature.
“I believe that people can connect and be inspired directly with nature through the sound and resonance of the musical instrument.”
Rapolas Grazys is a creator who is always looking for new possibilities. Born in Vilnius, Lithuania, he grew up in a family of artists who deeply inspired him with contemporary art. However, his attention was focused on product design, music, technology and materials. He graduated with a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in product design and has been trying to integrate guitars into his life ever since.
He has been playing the guitar since childhood and his passion for design and music eventually led him to build musical instruments.
Grazy’s building philosophy is heavily inspired by nature and he believes that people can connect and be inspired directly by the sound and resonance of a musical instrument. Deeply inspired by nature and modern technology, he uses materials never used in musical instrument construction. Grazys guitar creations are made from materials such as 50 million year old black amber, meteorites, aircraft quality aluminium, rare and sustainable wood and various types of stones and gemstones.
“I choose the best possible materials that transform their emotions and
experiences in Lava Drops creations.”
Grazys specializes in industrial and unique product development, high-end audio, musical instruments and conceptual interactive installations. He has taught design to students and currently runs the most famous private art school in Lithuania where they teach people art without borders.
“I create Lava Drops Guitars and at the same time I run the most prominent private art school in Lithuania where we teach people
Art without borders.”
Grazys does not describe himself as a luthier, but as a creator who is always looking for new ways to find new possibilities. He creates unique instruments that tell stories about people. His inspiration always drives him to test new materials and look for new ways to combine different types of materials to achieve new perspectives and sonic possibilities with functional design.
“I believe that people can connect and be inspired directly with nature through the sound and resonance of the musical instrument.”
YouTuber Darrell Braun tests one of Rapolas’ guitars.
Grazy’s signature style is minimalist and he creates collectible, functional musical artworks. It shapes each guitar like an actual drop, which provides ergonomic benefits. The Lava Drops guitar shape represents his work and sets his guitars apart. Grazys has developed four models including the Lava Bass Drops and the electric violin – Lava Vio Drop.
“I try to balance the simplicity and essence with some spice from material and design aspects.”
Grazys believes that creating instruments is like being a chef in the kitchen.
“Adding an extra sauce could change the food dramatically, but sometimes keeping the food simple lets the flavor shine.”
Grazys balances the creative and technical aspects of his craft by constantly learning and applying new techniques to his creations. Grazys challenges are time-consuming and require dedication, like Black Amber Drops, crafted from 50-million-year-old molten black amber, or fusing hardwoods with aircraft-grade aluminum.
“In my area, I have to keep learning new things through many tests and trials.”
Grazys is inspired by nature, modern technologies, architecture, modern art and everyday life. Inspiration is everywhere and he uses it accordingly to create new and innovative instruments.
“Inspiration is everywhere – you just have to see it and use it accordingly.”
Rapolas Grazys is a creator who is always looking for new ways to find new possibilities. His passion for music, design and materials has driven him to create unique musical works of art that connect people to nature through sound and resonance. Shaped like a teardrop, Grazy’s unique approach to guitar building offers ergonomic benefits and creates a signature style that sets his instruments apart. Grazys balances simplicity with material and design considerations, creating collectible and functional works of art. Through
With his work, Grazys continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in guitar making and inspire others to see the possibilities in their craft.
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Article written by Andreas Valdivia¨
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