CGD

"We're honoured to have been able to realise one of the designs he made in the last year of his life. At that time, he was more focused on drawing than carrying out physically demanding designs in the studio." Eva Kozarová, Marketing Manager, BOMMA

BOMMA glassworks started to produce glass products when the Czech glass- making industry was on the downturn. But in retrospect, that move seems to have been a good strategic decision. Instead of focusing on mass production – an area that has seen Czech production lose its competitive ability - the brand decided to concentrate on quality and the unique technology offered by the Jack cutting machine, the only robotic machine in the world superior to the human hand when it comes to precision glass cutting. In 2010, renowned Czech glassmaker and designer František Vízner used this technology for his debut collection of beverage glasses in a range of elegant shapes and delicate cuts designed for BOMMA (then known as Bohemia Machine). Sadly it was to be Vízner's final project before the legendary glass designer passed away in 2011. The collaboration with Vízner was the right decision for BOMMA – with Olgoj Chorchoj as creative directors – since the world-renowned designer knew how to expertly adjust products to meet user needs without compromising on aesthetic quality. His work is exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the National Museum of Modern Art in Tokyo, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris – an impressive list indeed. Over the years, he tested various glassmaking methods and successfully experimented with glass applications in architecture (see the wall cladding at Karlovo náměstí metro station). He created perfectly symmetrical and almost hypnotically flawless objects that showcase his minimalist tendencies. The same can be said about the limited collection of vases and bowls made from lead glass with which BOMMA expands its 2010 set – but in keeping with the original design. BOMMA is nominated for the Czech Grand Design Award for this attractive "update" project.

David Kalista