How do you create your Murano glass jewels?
I employ the traditional lampworking technique, where the flame of a blowtorch (an oil lamp in ancient times) is used to heat the glass and make it malleable. I make both solid and blown glass beads and other elements that can be strung and worn as jewellery.
Is it possible to update a time-honoured craft like lampworking?
Of course, but you cannot be innovative if you do not master the tradition. Every day I use an ancient technique in pursuit of a unique, representative and recognisable result: to create something that is contemporary and, hopefully, also innovative.
What is the 4 Mani (Four Hands) project that you are involved in?
It is an ongoing collaboration with Lucio Bubacco, the renowned Murano master lampworker who was also my tutor in Bolzano. The Atlantide necklace, our first four-handed creation, was selected for the 4th International Lampwork Glass Art Festival China in 2020.
How do you envisage the future of this craft?
In Italy it is rather bleak, unfortunately, because schools and universities do not provide training anymore, and the transmission of skills falls on artisans themselves. The situation is far better abroad, where crafts are considered and treated on a par with other professions.