Tomáš Hlavička – Inspired by Nature
Key Points
Tomáš Hlavička born 1950 in Czech Republic // 1969–1975 Academy of Arts, Architecture, and Design, Prague // 1976 Began collaboration with the Czech glass artist Pavel Hlava // 1990–2003 Worked at Pavel Hlava’s studio // Since 2004 runs his own glass studio in Prague
Collections (selection)
Museum of Decorative Arts, Prague // Pardubice Museum (Czech Republic) // Glass Museum Koganezaki Crystal Park // Glass Museum Kanazawa (Japan) // The Finnish Glass Museum, Riihimäki (Finland) // Dennos Museum Center, Michigan // Imagine Museum Florida (US)
Tomáš Hlavička is a renowned Czech glass artist born in 1950 in Prague. Originally trained as an architect, he studied at the University of Prague from 1969 to 1975. Hlavička later shifted his focus to glass art, influenced by his father-in-law, Pavel Hlava, a significant figure in modern Czech glass design. Hlavička’s unique approach involves fusing multiple layers of float glass with precious metals like gold, silver, and copper. These intricate layers are then heated and shaped into striking, minimalist forms.
His artistic process combines his architectural background with a deep understanding of materials. He sees glass as a medium capable of enhancing space and light through refraction and optical effects. Over time, he transitioned from designing functional pieces to creating purely sculptural works, focusing on form and aesthetic simplicity.
Hlavička’s works are part of prestigious collections worldwide, including the Kanazawa Glass Museum in Japan, the Museum of Decorative Arts in Prague, and the Riihimaki Glass Museum in Finland. His art is admired for its combination of craft, design, and monumental quality, reflecting his aim to blend art and architecture in a seamless fusion.
