Born of a love for glass blowing, and a classical esthetic arise the latest works designed and crafted by Catalogue c. 1905. These designs were inspired by the 1905 public catalogue of works produced by Salviati & Company. Handed from glassblower to glassblower it inspired Michael Hofmann and Jay Macdonell to join together to create artfully crafted Venetian inspired glass. The Pacific Northwest is the Venice of the West. Not just because glassmakers live here but the strong attraction of Pacific Northwest glass artists to the Venetian style, and particularly to the traditional glassworking techniques practiced on the Venetian island of Murano. Characteristics of the Venetian style in glass include the preference for blown, classically proportioned forms, and a flawless technique that may or may not involve complex internal or applied decoration. Less tangible, but equally distinctive, is the feeling of the glass: a liquidity, delicacy, and a joie de vivre that is effortlessly elegant, spontaneous, and upbeat.
“We wanted to use this catalogue as inspiration for our pieces, to challenge our skills and relay our utmost respect and appreciation for the craftsmanship and designs of the works from that time.” Says Michael Hofmann.
Jay Macdonell and Michael Hofmann have both blown glass in numerous studios around the world. The two have been working and collaborating together over the past ten years since they first met at Pilchuck Glass School in 1997.With their combined skill sets and Catalogue c.1905’s latest designs, Jay and Michael endeavour to capture their love and respect for their chosen medium and covey that to their audience.
