Since 2017, Tessa has been engaged in innovative collaborations with Venetian glassblowers on the island of Murano, trying to push the boundaries of glass textures through experimental techniques. Sourcing various types of discarded metals from factories in the Veneto region, she infuses them into the glass at varying states and temperatures. The pieces evolve throughout the production process inspiring her to explore the unknown, embrace the unpredictable alchemy of raw materials blending together, and adapt to the surprises and accidents that arise along the way. This creative process results in unique designs that celebrate the beauty of imperfection and spontaneity.

Titled “Celestial Bodies”, her sculptures comprise large single blocks of Murano glass that evoke a mesmerizing “cosmic alchemy” through their textures, dark matter and dark energy of some sort. They subtly reveal the interplay of contrasting qualities – spirit and matter, solidity and fragility, strength and delicacy, precision and randomness, form and chaos, nature and artifice. A diverse range of innovative, intricate and intriguing formations, allow light to permeate through and create whimsical patterns, captivating reflections and cast playful shadows. Each sculpture, uniquely crafted and skillfully mouth-blown by master glassblower Fabiano Amadi, stimulates a sense of curiosity and touch to the viewers and invites them to explore cosmic glass.

Crafted at the heart of Murano’s glassmaking tradition, Tessa’s work reflects a dialogue between the Venetian lagoon where she lives and her Lebanese cultural heritage, drawing connections back to the Phoenicians and their ancient glassmaking techniques across the Mediterranean since 1500-300 BC. This cross-cultural exploration highlights her commitment to merge historical craftsmanship with contemporary innovation, which is her works’ ethos.