Sculptural form meets traditional craft in the NAVAZI glass vase, an elegant solution for displaying sculptural branches and greenery. With a handblown glass vessel and a stainless steel cap, stems are held delicately in space minimizing possible damage to the plant. Guta glass, crafted through an ancient Ukrainian practice, is fired in traditional methods by master glassblowers in the country’s last furnace to allow for this type of free-blown glass. Artem Zakharchenko, creator of Ukrainian brand SVITANOK, aims to preserve this cultural legacy and uplift those that steward their ancient heritage into the future.
Early examples of this ancient technology date back to the 16th century. Now, with modernization and conflict in the country, the practice is declining and there are almost no Guta furnaces left. Each piece, made by a master in the free-blowing process, is a piece of history preserved, molten material coaxed lovingly into place.
The translucency of the vase is endearingly aquatic, allowing viewers to see through to the water’s refraction and out the other side. Indents delicately encircle the vessel, with a slowly sloping chamfer that neatly defines the transition between vase and insert. Light flows through in distinct moments, lending itself to a host of looks throughout the day. Zakharchenko shares, “NAVAZI isn’t just decor. It’s a quiet nod to history, a celebration of craftsmanship, and a little slice of beauty for your every day.”
A sturdiness to the opaque vessels is highly appreciated, lending a clean, fresh look to the same shape. Indeed, the beauty of Navazi is its handmade nature, no two vessels the exact same. This celebrates each artisan’s skill, emblamatic the minute but divine differences that make each shine. Every opacity presents a new look, changed with the pairing of either silver or gold hardware, in combination with various flora.
SVITANOK, meaning ‘dawn,’ knows the darkest days are usually right before sunrise. Artem Zakharchenko delights in the upending of scale in service of broadening minds and preconceived notions. He remains committed to maintaining Ukraine’s craft traditions, while also exploring product with a modern, thoughtful eye. Zakharchenko explains: “…The brand is dedicated to minimizing its environmental impact, adopting sustainable practices that align with its values. Each piece of SVITANOK carries the weight of the past while advancing its artistic vision into the future.”
To learn more about the NAVAZI glass vase by Artem Zakharchenko for SVITANOK, visit svitanok.com.
Photography courtesy of Artem Zakharchenko.
