Biography
The artist behind the glass
Gianni Poretti
The alchemy of glass. Since 1995, Gianni Poretti transforms glass, metals and oxides into sculptures that capture light and tell the formation of the cosmos.
Education
- 1946 — Born in Lugano
- 1962 -1965— Diploma as a glass blower, Neuchâtel
- 1970–1995 — Stained glass windows for Ticino churches, painting and blown glass
- 1995 — Beginning of research on glass fusion (Bergamo, Milan)
Artistic Philosophy
Poretti explores the transformation of matter by fusing glass with oxides and metals, reproducing the physical-chemical processes of the formation of the cosmos. Inspiration comes from the creation of the universe, from visions of changing elements and archaic forms of life.
Evolution of Work
- 1998 — "Storie di Vetro" (Glass Stories) cycle: rounds that narrate the fusion process
- 2001 — "3di" cycle: three-dimensional sculptures
- 2005 — Cycles: "Trasparenze", "N-F" (Non-Forms), "Volume", "Oltre"
- Today — Lamine and Rilievi: plates fused with metals, human figures in metal wires
Recognition
- 2002 — Solo exhibition, Swiss Stained Glass Museum, Romont
- 2006 — PROARTA Gallery, Zurich
- 2006 — Universo installation awarded in international competition
Collections
Archaeological Museum of Locarno · State Bank of Canton Ticino · Municipality of Canobbio · Vitromuseo Romont · City of Lugano · Private collections
Atelier
Gianni Poretti lives and works in Canobbio, via San Bernardo 41, Switzerland.