The Italian glassmaker Afro Celotto was raised on Murano, an island famous for its talented artisans and longstanding tradition of glass blowing. Celotto’s uncle and grandfather were both glassblowers, and at the age of fourteen he became an apprentice to the legendary Lino Tagliapietra. Twelve years later when Tagliapietra left the Murano island studio to bring his works to America, Celotto was asked to succeed him.  



Afro Celotto’s glass creations are lively, bright-colored works of art. Each piece is an incredible example of technical ability, and Celotto is recognized by collectors around the world for his ability to express himself through glass sculpture. 

His careful study of opacity and transparency allows bands of light to filter in and out of each vessel. The color combinations are sometimes daring, sometimes classic, but always innovative. For many years Celotto worked within the old Italian tradition where great glass masters executed the designs of their mentors. However, in the 21st century he has moved beyond excellence in execution and is now free to devote his attention to his own unique artistic expression. In his own Murano island studio he captures the beauty of light and movement in his glass creations, taking the ancient art form of glassmaking in bold new directions.