Urban lighting projects with Murano chandeliers

Can Murano chandeliers be protagonists of urban lighting? A city that shines with the beauty and art of the master glassmakers: is it possible? Of course, it is! An example is the initiative “Murano Illuminates the World”, which will be held until the end of February in Venice, at Piazza San Marco. And this is just one of the collaborations that can be had between glass artists and urban lighting.

The magic of Murano glass in the city

The magic of Murano glass intertwines with contemporary artistic expression in an extremely suggestive scenario: Piazza San Marco, the pulsating heart of the city. From November 24th to February 29th, an incredible artistic exhibition, "Murano Illuminates the World", transforms the arcades of the Procuratie Vecchie into a stage of light, thanks to the joint initiative of The Venice Glass Week and the Municipality of Venice. This unprecedented project brings attention to Murano glass and its future in a context that perfectly blends tradition and innovation. Every night, the city comes alive with the radiant light of Murano chandeliers, destined to enchant both citizens and tourists. Twelve extraordinary works of art, born from the collaboration between international artists and nine Murano furnaces, stand out in the square and nearby alleys. These masterpieces, specially created for the occasion, harmoniously integrate into the public lighting, transforming Piazza San Marco into a unique stage for public art.

Murano glass chandeliers: artisanal expertise and innovation

Murano glass, a natural and recyclable material, found its home on the island of Murano already from the Middle Ages, and now finds an exceptional showcase in Piazza San Marco. This event puts at the center the excellence of local craftsmanship and innovation of traditions, thanks to the masters, artists, and furnaces that have contributed to this memorable and repeatable project. A rich calendar of events, spread throughout the municipal territory, celebrates the realization of this public art intervention. The artists and designers involved in this project, selected by a special Scientific Committee, have embraced the goal of making Murano shine not only as a craft center but also as a forge of new ideas and an international center for experimentation and collaboration. Names like Philip Baldwin, Monica Guggisberg, Marcantonio Brandolini d'Adda, and others have created unique works, alongside students from the "Abate Zanetti" School of Murano.

Excellence furnaces: the soul of Murano chandeliers

The furnaces that have given life to these wonderful chandeliers bear the names of Anfora, Simone Cenedese, Componenti Donà, Salviati in collaboration with Nicola Moretti, Gianni Seguso, Lino Tagliapietra, Barovier&Toso, Wave Murano Glass, and Scuola Abate Zanetti. The coordination of the production was entrusted to Giordana Naccari, creating a perfect union between artists and furnaces.

Custom luminosity: the creative process

Each chandelier, with its specific dimensions, weight, and structural characteristics, was designed and realized exclusively for "Murano Illuminates the World". This attention to detail ensures the total respect of the delicate location in which they are installed, making each work unique that finds its home in Piazza San Marco. "Murano Illuminates the World" became a reality thanks to the belief and commitment of the artists and furnaces involved. The Cultural Productions Service of the Municipality of Venice, Vela Spa, and the Piazza San Marco Association worked in synergy to make this illuminating project possible. The Organizing Committee, composed of prestigious institutions and foundations, actively supported the initiative, highlighting the importance of uniting forces to promote the art and culture associated with Murano glass. Urban lighting projects with Murano chandeliers are therefore not only possible, but to be repeated.


14/01/2024