#Just Because… Murano Glass

During a recent visit to Venice, I made a stop on the island of Murano, home to the world-famous Murano glassmakers. I’ll admit, Murano glass wasn’t something I had ever seriously considered incorporating into the high-end interiors we design at Murray Fishpool. It always felt a bit too traditional for the contemporary spaces we create. However, my experience at CAM, a well-regarded gallery and workshop, has completely changed my outlook.

CAM showcases an impressive range of glasswork, from the classic styles Murano is known for to more contemporary pieces that caught my eye. While there, I had the opportunity to witness a glass-sculpting demonstration by Giancarlo Signoretto, the son of renowned master glassmaker Pino Signoretto. Giancarlo’s skill was evident as he effortlessly crafted a delicate miniature unicorn from molten glass—a process I’ll be sharing in a video on this blog.

What stood out most to me was how CAM has pushed the boundaries of Murano glass beyond traditional forms. The gallery features modern, minimalist pieces that fit seamlessly into contemporary spaces. One particular piece, a textured monochrome vase, had a clean architectural feel that I could easily see in one of our projects. It became clear to me that Murano glass, when approached with fresh creativity, can be as modern and versatile as any other material we work with.

The Decline of Murano Furnaces and Efforts to Reverse the Trend

While the artistry of Murano glass is still thriving, the number of active glass furnaces on the island has been in steady decline in recent years. The rising cost of fuel has put a significant strain on glassmakers, as the traditional glassblowing process is highly energy-intensive. Many small furnaces have been forced to close, and the survival of this ancient craft is now under threat.

However, efforts are being made to reverse this trend. Local artisans and the Venetian government are working together to support Murano’s glassmakers through subsidies and initiatives aimed at reducing fuel costs and exploring more sustainable energy sources. Some of the glassmakers are also adapting by collaborating with contemporary artists and designers, ensuring their work remains relevant in today’s market.

Venice itself is taking steps to preserve this important part of its cultural heritage. By promoting Murano glass globally and encouraging new, innovative projects, the city hopes to not only sustain but also rejuvenate its declining artisan community. There’s a growing recognition that Murano glass is not just a relic of the past, but a living art form that can evolve and thrive in the modern world.

Leaving CAM, I felt inspired by both the creativity I saw and the resilience of the glassmakers. Murano glass, I realized, isn’t just about tradition—it’s about innovation and craftsmanship. Despite the challenges, there’s hope that the art of glassmaking on Murano will endure, and it’s a craft that I now see as a perfect complement to the high-end residential interiors we create at Murray Fishpool.