A legacy of glass
So much of what I do, both as an artist and a Gallery Director, is about being bold, daring to experiment, innovate, and create something truly unique.
I’ll be honest and say that it hasn’t always come easy to me. Stepping outside my comfort zone is a skill that I’ve had to master – and boy am I still learning!?
Along the way, the practical support and inspiring stories of other artists have helped me keep moving forward.
My journey as a glass artist began under the tutelage of the legendary Diego Bottacin at the renowned Abate Zanetti School of Glass in Murano. While I had the raw talent and unwavering passion, it was through his rigorous training and guidance that I truly honed my craft. The discipline of working six hours a day, the constant feedback, and the relentless pursuit of perfection were instrumental in shaping my artistic vision and skill.
However, my journey is not unique. Throughout history, other notable women have also defied expectations and made significant contributions to the world of glass. One such trailblazer is Marietta Barovier, a pioneer in the field of glass art. She designed her own unique glass bead called ‘rosetta’ back in 1480.
What’s most inspiring about her story is that during that time, glass was mainly made by men. Women were not allowed in the furnaces as the work was considered too hard for them. Her innovation of glass beads meant that she was eventually allowed to use a small furnace for decorating her glass pieces.
Another influential figure is Jaroslava Brychtová, a Czech glass artist who defied gender norms and societal expectations to become a master of her craft. Her bold and expressive glass sculptures challenged traditional notions of glass art and inspired a new generation of female glass artists.
More recently, Venice-based sisters Elena and Margherita Micheluzzi have emerged as leading figures in contemporary glass design. Their brand, Micheluzzi Glass, celebrates the beauty and versatility of glass, pushing the boundaries of traditional techniques. Their work is a testament to the power of female creativity and innovation.
These women, along with many others, have shattered glass ceilings and broken down barriers. They have demonstrated that gender is no obstacle to artistic excellence. Their unwavering dedication, creativity, and resilience have been an inspiration to my work.
As I continue to explore the creative possibilities of glass art, I am grateful for their passion, perseverance, and courage. It’s a simple reminder that anything is possible, and how beauty can be born from brokenness.
It’s this message that I hope to convey through all my art and the art events I curate at ALG Fine Art.