Paolo Venini Struttura Metallica 16' x 11' Full Wall Backlit Colorful Glass Installation

Title: Struttura Metallica
Medium: Metal Frame, Glass, and Back Lighting System
Dimensions: 193" x 132" x 20"
Year: 2000
Documentation: Includes a gallery certificate of authenticity
Provenance: Previously installed at Restaurant Karu, Miami, FL
Additional services: Professional packaging and shipping; Professional engineering and Installation

Struttura Metallica, created by Paolo Venini in Murano, Italy in 2000, is a striking example of modern glass art. Venini's vision for this piece was to create a luminous, contemporary artwork that serves as both a functional and aesthetic element within a space. The installation features a massive glass wall, measuring 193 x 132 inches. The wall is adorned with a series of suspended oval shapes, each uniformly sized and shaped, arranged meticulously across the clear surface.

Previously installed at Restaurant Karu, Miami, Struttura Metallica captures the modern, bold and design-forward attitude of Miami. It features a rainbow of gemstones, including red, yellow, orange, blue and shades of green. Showcased on a clear wall, the consistently sized colorful ovals appear suspended in mid air. This vibrant spectrum not only enhances the visual appeal but also creates a captivating interplay of light and color.

Venini's expertise is evident in the seamless integration of the metal frame, glass elements, and backlighting system. The backlighting, a crucial component of the installation, illuminates the ovals from behind, creating an ethereal effect that makes the glass elements appear to float weightlessly in mid-air. This interplay of light and transparency highlights Venini's ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with modern design techniques.

Purchase of Venini's Struttura Metallica includes a gallery certificate of authenticity. Our team is experienced in packing, shipping, and installing large, complex glass installations, and we can arrange full service, door to door options.

About Paolo Venini

Paolo Venini (1895-1959) was an Italian maestro whose vision and craftsmanship transformed the art of glassmaking, leaving an indelible mark on the world of decorative arts. Born in Milan, Venini's early education and career were rooted in law and business. However, a chance encounter with the world of glassmaking during the early 20th century would redirect his life toward a path that would redefine the art form.

Venini's journey into the world of glass began in 1921 when he partnered with the renowned artist and glassmaker Giacomo Cappellin to establish the Venini & Co. glassworks in Murano, an island in Venice renowned for its rich glassmaking tradition. This collaboration was pivotal in setting the stage for a new era in glass design. Venini's commitment to blending traditional techniques with innovative aesthetics quickly distinguished his work from his contemporaries.

In 1925, Venini took full control of the company, which would later become known simply as Venini. His vision for the company was revolutionary. Under his leadership, Venini embraced a modernist approach, characterized by clean lines, bold colors, and a departure from the ornate styles that had previously dominated the glassmaking scene. This shift was not merely stylistic; it represented a profound transformation in how glass art was perceived and produced.

Venini's work is celebrated for its extraordinary range and depth. His designs spanned from strikingly abstract forms to elegant, intricate patterns. He was instrumental in pioneering the use of new techniques and materials, including the development of innovative glass-blowing methods and the exploration of diverse textures and finishes. His fascination with light and color led to the creation of some of the most iconic glass pieces of the 20th century.

One of Venini's most significant contributions to the world of glass art was his collaboration with leading artists and designers of his time. He worked with figures such as Carlo Scarpa, Paolo Venini, and other notable artists, who brought their unique perspectives to the glassmaking process. This collaborative spirit not only enriched the company's output but also expanded the boundaries of what glass art could achieve.

Venini's commitment to artistic excellence was matched by his dedication to craftsmanship. His glassmakers, many of whom were highly skilled artisans from Murano, were trained under his meticulous standards. The result was a body of work that was both aesthetically stunning and technically refined. Each piece produced under the Venini name was a testament to the meticulous attention to detail and the high level of skill involved in its creation.

The legacy of Paolo Venini is evident in the continued relevance and influence of his work. His pieces are housed in prestigious museums and collections around the world, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and the Louvre in Paris. Venini's glassworks are not merely decorative objects but are celebrated as works of art that encapsulate a unique blend of innovation, tradition, and craftsmanship.

Despite his passing in 1959, Paolo Venini's impact on the field of glass art remains profound. The Venini company continues to operate, upholding the principles and standards that Venini established. The company's ongoing commitment to innovation and quality ensures that his legacy endures, inspiring new generations of artists and designers to explore the limitless possibilities of glassmaking.

In recognition of his contributions to art and design, Paolo Venini is remembered as a visionary who transformed the craft of glassmaking into a modern art form. His work exemplifies the intersection of tradition and innovation, and his legacy serves as a beacon for those who seek to push the boundaries of artistic expression. Through his dedication to his craft and his relentless pursuit of excellence, Paolo Venini has secured his place as one of the most influential figures in art history.