With its history tracing back to ancient times, the art of glassmaking has traditionally been entrusted to skilled artisans with specialized knowledge and techniques. However, in Europe, from the latter half of the 19th century, designers and glassmakers began to collaborate. Entering the 20th century, René Lalique pioneered production methods utilizing precise molds and machinery, achieving mass production of high-quality glass products that brought new beauty to everyday life. Across Europe, glass companies invited painters, sculptors, and designers to lead artistic efforts, giving rise to superior product design. Some countries, such as Sweden, even embraced these endeavors on a national scale.

Also during the 20th century, it became common for artists to select glass as a medium for self-expression. Particularly in the latter half of the 20th century, with the emergence of works that boldly conveyed the creativity and vision of these artists, glassworking transcended its traditional role of producing mere vessels or decorative items.

The potential of glass as a medium expanded into both functional products and expressive art throughout the 20th century. We invite you to explore this transformative era in European glass through our collection.

Adults: 1,200(1,000) yen / Senior high school and university students: 700(500) yen / Junior high and elementary school students: 300(200) yen / Preschoolers: free
* Elementary school students and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

*Rates in parentheses apply to:
・Groups of 10 persons or more
・Repeater’s Discount on presentation of a stub of a special exhibition ticket held at Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art or other prefectural museums in Hokkaido.

*Holders of disability ID and a caregiver, etc. are admitted free of charge. Please show a disability certificate at the reception desk.

Organized by Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art