MORE: Born inΒ Japan, Ohira now lives inΒ Venice, where the glass industry has thrived for centuries on the islands of Murano. Trained there, he became a master glassmaker. Collaboration with other master makers enables his unique techniques that meld traditional glass techniques with Edo colors and shapes.
SMART COLLECTORS KNOW: Contemporary glass is hot now β and has been for more than a decade β thanks in part toΒ Dale Chihulyand new talents, worldwide. While techniques of the past are used, they are most often mixed with personalized shapes, colors and themes.
HOT TIP: It's not just glass aficionados that go for contemporary works. Finding appropriate accessories for modern or avant garde decor can be difficult. There's very little top merchandise available. Smart collectors know that they can lock in major pieces by being the first to own pieces by up-and-coming glass artists before the price climb for their works happens.
BOTTOM LINE: The ranks of celebrated contemporary glass artisans include many women.
