The role of light and color in the narrative of history: the wonders of glassmaking art

The art of glassmaking transforms light into color, and from medieval European churches to mosque sashes, houses, decorative products, etc., it has had a spiritual and aesthetic role and is considered one of the oldest human techniques.

We deal with glass every day, but its value and capacity as an art material is less seen. In the hands of artists, glass turns from an everyday object into a fantastic work; Windows, vases, decorative containers and lamps can be transformed into poetic forms.

Prominent glassmakers such as Dili Chihouli have shown for years how close this material can be to beauty and imagination. Church windows with colored glass and historical monuments around the world have told stories and history and transformed the space with the play of light and color; Chihouli believes: “Glass is the most magical material in the world.”

This magic can be seen in the selected images of the Smithsonian magazine photography contest; Images that have put the beautiful world of glass in front of our eyes again.