A unique tradition of Murano beads
- Alessandro makes his beads exclusively using Murano glass
- His practice continues a family legacy
- He collaborates with other artisans and couture houses
Alessandro Moretti was raised in a family of glass bead makers, and he spent countless hours in his grandfather's workshop. "I learned the craft through observation. When I got the hang of it, I went down a self-taught path and opened my own workshop in 2006," he says. Alessandro specialises in lampworking and crafting beads made in Murano glass. He supplies couture houses with beads for embroidery, and creates costume jewellery and gadgets. Alessandro's glass beads are also used in artistic installations and lighting projects. "No two beads are the same, and to me, this is some sort of magic," he explains. Alessandro is a regular at the annual Venice Glass Week.
Interview
- When did you first think about crafting glass beads?
- My family has a tradition of working with glass and making glass beads. As a child, I spent many hours at my grandfather’s workshop, watching him at work. I later grew a passion for lampworking while looking at artisans through shop windows of my beloved Murano.
- Are collaborations with other makers important for you?
- Collaborations with fellow artisans in the glass field are important and meaningful, as they allow us to exchange ideas, learn and inspire each other. It is the best way to stay up-to-date and relevant in the craft. With no innovation, we run the risk of being left behind.
- Does the public know enough about your craft?
- People do not realise that handcrafted products are unique pieces. Each bead is different, its creation determined by how the raw material is shaped and transformed with the human touch. I can tell that today, there is an increased interest and curiosity about craftsmanship.
- What makes glass beads special?
- Glass beads are versatile. I can experiment with colour, shape and size. They can be used in different objects, whether as a piece of jewellery or as a starting point of precious embroidery. I am fascinated by the fact that all beads are one-of-a-kind creations.
Alessandro Moretti is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2006
Works
Where
Alessandro Moretti
