A journey into the amazing history of Murano glass
MAY 2026 – Join us for a captivating journey into the history of Murano glass, starting from the history of the Repubblica Serenissima, the extraordinary Republic of Venice, founded more than 1,300 years ago in the Venetian Lagoon. From its Roman origins to its unmatched supremacy over the seas, Venice stands as one of history’s most remarkable civilizations. At the height of its power lies the story of Murano glass, whose official origins date back to 982. Over the centuries, Murano’s master glassmakers revolutionized techniques and aesthetics, elevating the island to the pinnacle of the global glassmaking world.
Particularly fascinating is the extraordinary evolution of color in glass, a turning point that transformed both the craft and its artistic legacy. The presentation will follow this evolution through the Golden Century and into the challenges of the 1600s.
Our Speaker will be Michele Zampedri, who will join us from Italy specifically for this event.
Born in 1957 in the ‘sestriere’ (neighborhood) Castello, the vibrant heart of Venice’s popular life, Michele grew up immersed in the culture and traditions of the ancient Republic. He pursued his academic studies at the prestigious Ca’ Foscari University of Venice. At a very young age, he entered the world of Murano glass and was immediately captivated by its transparency, its colors, and its magical interplay of light. Over the years, he gained extensive experience working with renowned glassworks, taking on increasingly complex roles until becoming part of the leadership of Vetreria Artistica Vivarini.
He has served as its CEO since 2000 and was appointed President in 2014.
Michele has traveled widely—across the United States, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, and throughout Europe—overseeing the design, production, and installation of prestigious Murano chandeliers that adorn some of the world’s most important residences. Since 2018, he has dedicated himself to the creation of high-end decorative objects. Several of his works have been exhibited at the celebrated Murano Glass Museum, including Upcycling Glass and Vero Casanova. Recognized as one of the foremost experts on Murano glass and a profound connoisseur of its history and cultural landscape, Michele is a frequent speaker at conferences and the author of essays and scholarly writings.
Alongside his professional career, he has devoted himself to civic engagement and local institutions. Among his many honors, he has been awarded the title of Cavaliere della Repubblica Italiana (Order of Merit of the Italian Republic) and Cavaliere dell’Ordine di San Marco.
Particularly fascinating is the extraordinary evolution of color in glass, a turning point that transformed both the craft and its artistic legacy. The presentation will follow this evolution through the Golden Century and into the challenges of the 1600s.
Our Speaker will be Michele Zampedri, who will join us from Italy specifically for this event.
Born in 1957 in the ‘sestriere’ (neighborhood) Castello, the vibrant heart of Venice’s popular life, Michele grew up immersed in the culture and traditions of the ancient Republic. He pursued his academic studies at the prestigious Ca’ Foscari University of Venice. At a very young age, he entered the world of Murano glass and was immediately captivated by its transparency, its colors, and its magical interplay of light. Over the years, he gained extensive experience working with renowned glassworks, taking on increasingly complex roles until becoming part of the leadership of Vetreria Artistica Vivarini.
He has served as its CEO since 2000 and was appointed President in 2014.
Michele has traveled widely—across the United States, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, and throughout Europe—overseeing the design, production, and installation of prestigious Murano chandeliers that adorn some of the world’s most important residences. Since 2018, he has dedicated himself to the creation of high-end decorative objects. Several of his works have been exhibited at the celebrated Murano Glass Museum, including Upcycling Glass and Vero Casanova. Recognized as one of the foremost experts on Murano glass and a profound connoisseur of its history and cultural landscape, Michele is a frequent speaker at conferences and the author of essays and scholarly writings.
Alongside his professional career, he has devoted himself to civic engagement and local institutions. Among his many honors, he has been awarded the title of Cavaliere della Repubblica Italiana (Order of Merit of the Italian Republic) and Cavaliere dell’Ordine di San Marco.
Date: — , May —, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00PM
Location: South Carolina Society Hall, 72 Meeting Street, Downtown Charleston, SC 29401
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00PM
Location: South Carolina Society Hall, 72 Meeting Street, Downtown Charleston, SC 29401
