My friends at Gallery 36 in Yorkville (Toronto) invited me over yesterday to check out their ever-growing collection of stunning art glass from the island of Murano, home to some of Italy’s greatest crafstpeople. In this cozy boutique gallery you will find breathtaking pieces from glass “masters” such as Rossi, Alfiero, Medici, Russo, Bellisio, Mercato and others, in all shapes, sizes and a rainbow of colours.
I found some functional bowls and vases as well as sculptures of animals, birds, even festive crustaceans!
I had a chuckle when I spied these cheeky kitty-cats (below)
and all the other wee glassy beasties….
Gallery owner Trevor was busy changing the window display so a snapped him hard at work…
…. and dusting his friend, the zaftig bronze ballerina (below). I just love her!
The gallery is chock-a-block full of wonderful and affordable pieces suitable for your mansion, apartment, loft or basement hide-away.
Just look at these bowls and the intricate art found inside each…
The glass is created using the “lampwork” technique – made from Silica which becomes liquid once it reaches an extremely high temperature. As it starts to harden, the “glass” is still soft enough to allow the artisan to shape the materials. You can see the amazing results of this all around you at Gallery 36. I recommend popping in and I’m sure you will find something that fits your home and your wallet. And say hi from me.
GALLERY 36
92 Avenue Road, Toronto, ON M5R 2H2 T: (416) 962-7636 http://www.gallery36.ca
