Murano, in Venice, has been a commercial port since as far back as the 7th century, and glass making in Murano has a long history, believed to date back to 8th century Rome. The tradition of glass making has been kept alive by talented craftsmen passing on their knowledge and skills to the next generation. MASSIMO NORDIO was born in Venice, and has lived there all of his life. While working his glass in Murano over the years, he has seen the demand for Murano at its peak, and now, flexing its survival skills. At a time when Italy is tightening its belt, along with the rest of Europe, Massimo continues to keep this beautiful craft alive. He talks to The Malta Independent on Sunday ahead of his upcoming exhibition at Palazzo Parisio. 


You have exhibited in many countries, which stands out as the most successful?It all started in Venice, when in the 80s glass galleries were blooming and contemporary Murano glass ventured out to Europe. I rode the wave. But the two exhibitions that I found to be the most enjoyable and successful were in Venice at the Museo Corre in St Mark's Square, and in my second home of Japan in a 19th century museum villa where there was no electric lighting, only candles, and  guests wore kimonos.
Some sculptures and vases are more detailed and colourful than others, does this reflect the time taken and skill required to create a work?Not necessarily, sometimes simplicity and pure lines are the most difficult to achieve; however more detailed and complex patterns mean higher costs. Having a lot of time for accuracy is important; however some spontaneous moments give very satisfactory results too. 
How long does it take you to create an artwork?The planning phase is very important so as to know which techniques you will use to create a particular work. Making a mosaic of glass elements to be fused and picked up by a bulb of hot glass and then to be blown is not easy. It comes from many years of practice, but glass has a strong personality and sometimes has a mind of its own. You always have to be ready to accept some variations to the original plan. The actual hot work in the furnace can vary from one to three hours, and then comes the cold work, consisting of cutting and sculpting the piece with a stone or diamond wheel. This may take many hours, sometimes days, as happens with some of my works. On the other hand, you can also make beautiful and simple pieces in a short time when limiting the technique. Onlookers may think that it is an easy thing to do, but on the contrary, this comes from an absolute skill that only few masters can achieve.
For how long have you been creating glass art on the island of Murano and how has the factory changed since you first saw it?My first works date back to 1982. Since then everything has changed - the costs, enthusiasm, traditions and attitudes of glass makers. The number and quality of designers and artists have also dwindled. Murano glass making has slowed down due to the extremely high cost of energy, raw materials, and the lowering of salaries. We all know this is not the most prosperous moment in time.
Are there any plans to prevent the tradition from disappearing altogether?Unfortunately there is not enough attention from local and national governments to support such excellence. It is still alive today, however, thanks to some entrepreneurs, dedicated glass makers, families and courageous artists - glass making is now very costly.
Do you have a favourite work on show at the exhibition?I may say it is a functional one, a heavy 'murrina' vase, and one attractive non-functional red lip - but in saying so I betray a great number of other works!
Why Malta, what is your connection?It was not a purely professional choice in the beginning. First of all, I love the island. This exhibition comes from fortunate encounters and from my hope to collaborate with local glass makers.
What do you hope for from your exhibition at Palazzo Parisio this week?Firstly, that my works and the efforts of Lily Agius are appreciated, and, that the Maltese will welcome Venetian art in their homes.
The exhibition, Ignis, will run from Monday 13 October until Sunday 26 October between 9am and 6pm in the Palazzo Parisio garden.  It is being supported by FIMBank, The Smart Skin Clinic, Cassar & Cooper, Franciacorta Sparkling Wines from Bubbly Trading Ltd, Tico Tico, Vitra, Idea Casa and The Malta Independent.  For more information contact the Lily Agius Gallery on +356 9929 2488.  www.lilyagiusgallery.com