Artist of the Month
May 2025
Lino Tagliapietra 2025
As a small boy in Murano, Lino walked by the open door of Archimede Seguso’s glass studio, watched men blowing glass and declared to himself, "I want to be a glass blower!" At age 11 Lino became an apprentice at that same studio. Thus began his epic career. Appointed Maestro at age 21, today the name Lino Tagliapietra is synonymous with "blown glass." Lino is represented by Holsten Galleries, which has been honored to represent him for 40 years.
Aquilone, 2020; 15.25 x 15.25 x 7.24 inches; blown glass
Fenice, 2014; 16.25 x 18.5 x 3.75 inches; blown glass
Blu Africa, 2020; 7.25 x 16.25 x 16.25 inches; blown glass
Contarini, 2017; 15.25 x 14.5 x 7.5 inches; blown glass
Dinosaur, 2009; 36.75 x 11.5 x 5.75 inches; blown glass
Aquilone, 2020; 18.75 x 13.5 x 7.5 inches; blown glass
Lino Tagliapietra 2025
Artist Statement:
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
I hope this message finds you well—happy, healthy, and thriving wherever you are in the world.
First and foremost, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Kenn Holsten for the invitation to share a few words with you. It is truly an honor and a pleasure.
Recently, I’ve been fortunate to spend time on the beautiful island of Murano, surrounded by family and dear friends. With the first signs of spring in the air, the sun shines a little brighter, the days grow warmer, and I’ve been savoring it all—taking long walks, staying active, and embracing the peaceful energy that only a place like Murano can offer. Being here fills me with deep gratitude and renewed inspiration.
At the same time, I must say that I deeply miss traveling to the United States—blowing glass, meeting friends, exploring new places, and sharing unforgettable moments together. Those experiences have always been a source of great joy and inspiration, and I carry them with me even from afar.
I would also like to send my warmest greetings to all of you—my wonderful friends and colleagues whom I have had the privilege of meeting over the course of my career. I miss you all and treasure the moments we’ve shared, whether we worked closely together or simply crossed paths. Each connection has left a lasting impression, and I am grateful for every experience.
I wish you continued success, happiness, and fulfillment in all you do—both personally and professionally. Please stay in touch, and above all, never stop pursuing the passions that inspire you.
With sincere appreciation, Lino
About Lino Tagliapietra 2025
Lino's long career in glass spanned over seven decades. Little could that small boy in Murano ever have dreamed that he would one day be hailed as the world's greatest glass blower. It is the combination of Lino's prodigious technical skills, his creative experimentation and vision, and his generous sharing of those qualities with other glass artists that have earned him that title.
Lino's first visit to Seattle and his teaching debut at Pilchuck in 1979 began his introduction of the techniques and traditions of Venetian glass blowing in the United States. Lino, in turn, was inspired by the free-spirited approach of the young American glass artists. This unique cultural collaboration continues to this day to influence the identity and character of American glassblowing.
Over his lifetime, Lino has generously shared his knowlege and skills with countless other glass artists both in the US and also in schools, workshops, and studios throughout the world. It is impossible to imagine the state of the art of glass today without Lino's amazing influence.
Since his retirement in 2021 at the age of 87, Lino has been enjoying time with his family in Murano. He maintains a keen interest not only in glass art but also in the culinary arts, both as a gourmand and as a spectacular cook.
Thank you, Lino, for being who you are and for helping to make the world of glass art what it is today!
Click here for a full biography.
Photos of Lino courtesy of Lino Tagliapietra Inc. Photographed by Amalgamation Pictures. 2020.
Acknowledgment of Gallery:
We are grateful to Holsten Galleries for providing the Artist of the Month.
The Art Alliance for Contemporary Glass (AACG) is a not-for-profit organization and leading resource for glass collectors, art enthusiasts, artists, gallerists, museum personnel, and educators on all things related to glass art. AACG provides a collaborative place for robust conversations about glass art, including its production, techniques, and trends. We also encourage and support the glass community through annual grants and artist scholarships.
