HISTORY OF OUR GLASS GALLERY
Glasgalerie Stölting – Hamburg HafenCity
Passion for Glass since 35 Years – Glasgalerie Stölting was founded by Tom Stölting in Hamburg’s HafenCity to continue the tradition and legacy of Glasgalerie Hittfeld, established by his mother, Eliska Stölting. In 1988, Eliska Stölting opened the world’s first gallery exclusively dedicated to contemporary Czech glass art. Located just outside Hamburg, this gallery gained international acclaim and became an important center for glass art, attracting artists and collectors from around the world.
The focus of Glasgalerie Stölting is on glass sculptures by artists who belong to the international elite of the glass art scene. Through decades of connections and close friendships with the artists, the Stölting family has not only gathered valuable internal knowledge but also earned the trust of the artists, enabling the gallery to present exclusive works and further enhance the international reputation of its artists. The gallery is dedicated to showcasing works from all generations of Czech glass artists, from the pioneers of modern glass art in the 1950s to the emerging talents of the youngest generation. Tom Stölting is committed to not only promoting established artists but also discovering new talents and providing them with a platform to present their works to an international audience. This cross-generational approach helps to ensure the continuity and development of international glass art while bringing fresh impulses to the scene.
The decision to open the gallery in Hamburg’s HafenCity was no coincidence. HafenCity is known for its modern architecture, cultural diversity, and dynamic atmosphere. The Elbphilharmonie, with its impressive glass facade, symbolizes the connection between tradition and modernity, providing a perfect backdrop for the presentation of glass art. Its waterfront location and the mix of historical and modern buildings attract numerous international visitors throughout the year, who are interested in art, architecture, and new cultural experiences.