Shanga Stories

Glass Bridge

Glass Bridge is a creative exchange project initiated by Kukua Ltd, developed to foster dialogue between Murano’s centuries-old glassmaking tradition and contemporary practices in Tanzania. The project took place in Arusha and brought together master glassblowers from Murano and the Shanga community, creating a shared space for learning, experimentation, and cultural exchange.

Supported by the Embassy of Italy in Dar es Salaam, the project unfolded as an intensive ten-day workshop focused on the transmission of traditional Murano glass techniques to makers working with recycled glass. Under the artistic direction of Emmanuel Babled, Murano masters Andrea Zilio and Luigi Varagnolo led hands-on sessions at Shanga, blending Venetian expertise with local materials and practices.

At the heart of Glass Bridge is an inclusive and collaborative approach to making. The exchange was carried out entirely on a volunteer basis and actively engaged makers with disabilities, positioning empowerment, accessibility, and skill-sharing as central values of the project.

Beyond the workshop, Glass Bridge establishes the foundations for future glass production in Tanzania, supporting long-term development through knowledge transfer and creative collaboration. The works developed during the project will be presented in Dar es Salaam and Arusha in February 2026, followed by a presentation during Venice Glass Week 2026.

Glass Bridge reflects Kukua’s commitment to meaningful cultural exchange, where craftsmanship becomes a bridge between traditions, territories, and communities.