Stefano Morasso
- LABORATORY: Stefano Morasso Studio
- PRODUCTS: Glasses, Jewelry, Various objects
- MATERIALS: Glass
- NEIGHBORHOOD: Giudecca
- AVAILABILITY: Open to the public
- OPENNING HOURS: 8am–12pm / 3pm–6pm (Mon–Sun)
- ADDRESS: Chiostro SS. Cosma e Damiano, 621/A
Glassmaking runs deep in Stefano Morasso’s veins. Born to parents who were master glassmakers on Murano, Stefano grew up immersed in this rich tradition. Early memories of playing with the flames of the kitchen stove and watching his father, Mino, shape vivid glass forms left a lasting impression. Fascinated by the alchemy of glass, Stefano joined his father in the family workshop, mastering the art of lampworking, a technique involving the shaping and blowing of glass with a torch.
In the 1980s, Stefano distinguished himself among Murano’s lumisti by merging traditional furnace techniques with lampworking. Inspired by a simple iron tube used to make beads, he innovated the process, using the lamp’s fire to create blown objects—goblets, vases, and more—that were previously only possible in larger furnaces. His method introduced a miniature furnace-like approach, revolutionizing the craft and paving the way for other glassmakers.
Through experimentation and perseverance, Stefano refined his craft, combining ancient techniques with modern aesthetics. Among these is the Phoenician technique, which requires precision and speed to achieve layered, ombré-like tonal effects. His works, from jewelry to household objects, showcase his talent for harmonizing colors and shapes, with each piece reflecting his innovative spirit, a love for the “perfectly imperfect”, and deep respect for traditional craftsmanship.
From his serene workshop on la Giudecca—an industrious space filled with tools of all sorts, reflective of Stefano’s dynamic approach—he passes down his trade to his son, Zaccaria, while continuing to experiment with new methods and chromatic composition that never cease to awe. His lampwork creations include vases, goti (glasses) and jewels—this, a combination between Stefano’s glassmaking and the metalwork of his wife, Nicoletta, who also runs their shop in Dorsoduro.