In Daniela Forti’s hands, glass ceases to be a material and becomes a living presence. Her sculptures seem to breathe, suspended between fluidity and solidity, light and shadow. Each piece captures an instant of transformation, as if molten glass had frozen mid-motion, preserving its energy within transparent form.
Born in Rome and now based in the Tuscan hills near Lucca, Forti has spent decades refining her mastery of glass, experimenting with color, heat, and gravity to reveal new ways of thinking about form. Her works, from the luminous Meduse to the intricate Cactus and Fruttiere series, merge architecture, biology, and poetry. They belong to a long Italian lineage of material experimentation, yet they also break free from it, affirming an unmistakably personal vision where glass becomes both skin and light.
In this conversation, Forti reflects on her relationship with the natural world, the emotional patience her process demands, and the quiet dialogue between fire and transparency that defines her work. Her voice, like her sculptures, moves with precision and sensitivity—illuminating the delicate boundary where craft becomes pure imagination.
An Interview with Daniela Forti
By Carol Real
What do you love most about the place where you live, and how does it inspire your work?
I live and work in a village of 700 in the hills of Lucca where I can admire a breathtaking view, watch sunsets of many colors, and absorb the silence. It is a magical place from which I draw much inspiration. It helps me realize my dreams. I am also fortunate to live and work in a region that has been the cradle of geniuses such as Michelangelo and Leonardo Caravaggio.
What visual elements or natural references most influence your creations, and how do you decide on the colors of your sculptures?
I am very influenced by the sea—its transparency and its mysterious underwater world full of fascinating creatures. I am enchanted by their colors and movements, elements that I try to transform into evocative glass forms.
What is the most rewarding part of working with the glass-fusion technique?
Without a doubt the best moment is when, after the first phase of the fusion, I open the oven and, with the curiosity of a child, see the result I have achieved. Through many years of work, it always manages to make my heart beat fast. It spurs me on to continue my research.
Throughout your career, what have been the most challenging moments as an artist?
My biggest challenge has been (on behalf of an important multinational company) to design and manufacture more than one thousand unique pieces, organizing everything, and taking care of even the smallest details. In the end, I was successful. I did it well.
What achievement do you consider your greatest artistic success?
It was participation in an important exhibition, curated by Jean Blanchaert in Milan at Villa Necchi Campigli—and having the honor of getting to know the greatest glass artists in the world.
You’ve mentioned artists such as Dale Chihuly, Toots Zynsky, and Cuny Jutta as inspirations. Are there others you particularly admire?
There are many glass artists that I love. I will mention only a few more: Pipaluk Lake, Simone Crestani, and Ben Young (who loves the ocean too).
How does it feel to know that your work is part of private museums and prestigious institutions like the Lions Club in Rome?
I feel gratitude knowing that a little bit of me is in all those places.
What advice would you give to emerging artists who are just beginning their journey?
In total autonomy, explore your skills, your creativity. Be giving of your passion, and do not count the hours of work. Go forward with determination to be revolutionary. With determination, create innovative works that do not follow patterns. Above all, do not copy.
How important is recognition and the receipt of awards in your artistic path?
Awards and recognition are important. They gratify both the creator and the viewer, and they reward the artist’s hard work!
What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned throughout your career?
Accept advice and criticism that will encourage you to move forward.
If you could create your dream project, what would it be?
Glass Is a Magical Material …
It lives of light, capturing, transforming, channeling and dispersing it, making it flutter in a concert of color.
It is alchemy which from heaviness, thru flame leads to lightness, to evanescent, to the undefined…
Glass and Fantasy
From the fusion of sand, fire and creativity timeless objects are born. The entire area of Empoli has been synonymous with glass for centuries when the production of glass objects was linked to daily life in the form of wine bottles, oil ampoules, etc.
Following the inspiration and fantasy of the glass masters objects of quality and continuously more refined beauty were created, which today decorate our tables and our homes.
The tradition of glassworks in Tuscany is still very alive today with important companies working in this sector and exporting around the world. From simple objects in green glass, the tradition has evolved into refined techniques and colorful designs.
