Sara Sorribes

Vidrio Sorribes

Lampworker

©Albert Martinez

©Valentina Betancor

In the name of the father

Blowing, fusing, glazing and engraving are Sara's specialisms
Her work pays tribute to the legacy of her glassmaker father
She combines the best of ancient and modern glass craft

Sara Sorribes was 23 years old when she realised she wanted to be a glass artisan like her father and grandfather were before her. Glass artisans since 1920, her ancestors combined age-old glasswork techniques with innovative processes. So when Sara inherited her father's company, she decided to continue his legacy by adapting glass craftsmanship to the needs of modern times. Today, Vidrio Sorribes is a well known glassworks in Valencia that develops pieces for jewellery, lighting, decoration, art and beverage firms, among other things. The sea and sand of the region, as well as the spirit of its biggest festival, Las Fallas, are Sara’s primary sources of inspiration. She also teaches the craft, sharing her experiences in order to “write a better future with an artisan’s hands”.

Interview

©Albert Martinez

©Albert Martinez

Did you learn from a master artisan?: Although I have a background in international trade, my life has always revolved around the art of glass. I learned the techniques from my father. I will always remember his hands. He used to say: 'Perfection does not exist, but we must try to achieve it'.
When did you decide to follow in his footsteps?: My father had always encouraged us to work elsewhere. One day when I went to visit him, I found that even though he was overwhelmed by his craft, he was still smiling. I had come from only six hours of work and wanted to die! At that moment, I realised I wanted to smile like him.
How do tradition and innovation entwine in your work?: The best way to express tradition and innovation in our work is by incorporating the best of ancient and modern glass crafts. You can be the best glassblower in the world, but if you do not add new designs, you won't survive. I love collaborating with brands, designers, artists and students.
What would you advise a young artisan who wants to work in glass?: When giving conferences to young entrepreneurs, I always tell them the same thing: do not get involved in this craft just for money. You must be committed out of passion. If you do so, and work hard, the money will arrive.

Sara Sorribes is a master artisan: she began her career in 1998 and she started teaching in 1998