A double act inspired by the playfulness of glass
- Paola and Alberto are a creative duo as well a couple in life
- Their production is varied and eclectic, from jewellery to sculptures and functional objects
- They have set up their glasswork studio in a district known for its ceramics
Paola Scapin and Alberto Corte share a glassworking studio, and above all, a shared vision for their glass creations. Innovative yet within tradition, colourful and with a twist of humour, these are the characteristics they recreate in their pieces. Both Paola and Alberto were born and raised in Venice, and so inevitably exposed to the art of glass. Mostly self-taught, the duo is driven by their instinct during their creative process. They specialise in lampworking, glass fusion and grinding. Their production is versatile, from beads in different shapes and colours, to jewellery designed by Paola, and artistic objects. They cherish working as a couple, as it brings challenges as well as solutions.
Interview
- Is it challenging to work together?
- Paola: It is, but it is also fun. Our conversations can become arguments, but a winning idea usually comes from this exchange. Sometimes I start a project and then Alberto finishes it, or vice versa. The two of us are completely in love with our craft, and our passion is the leitmotif driving our work.
- What happens backstage while working at the studio?
- Paola: People do not necessarily realise that glass explodes every day when there is a change in temperature, as glass absorbs moisture. It then releases splinters, and this is why, besides being very careful, we must always keep a high level of concentration, which can be wearing.
- What is the inspiration behind your eclectic work?
- Alberto: Masters like Bubacco and Costantini who have developed exceptional techniques inspire us. I am very curious, so I am always looking for inspiration in every field. My goal is innovation and experimentation, mastering a technique and then searching and combining elements from a different one.
- Would you describe the sculpting process as a sort of meditation?
- Alberto: In the more commercial part of our production – such as the making of beads – there is an aspect of meditative repetition. The repetition can be soothing, albeit the level of concentration required is always high, to avoid waste. What I most enjoy, though, is the artistic part, where creativity can run free.
Alberto Corte & Paola Scapin are expert artisans: they began their career in 2007
Where
Alberto Corte & Paola Scapin
