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17 associations and 14 technical journals representing 17 countries: these are the figures behind the 3rd International Convention of Glass Associations, held in Venice July 10-11, 2019, with the support of ITA (Italian Trade Agency) and Vitrum.

Presentations by the guest associations occupied much of the intense two-day program. The four delegations present for the first time at a business session – Achival (Chile), Bouwend Nederland, vakgroep Glas - GBO (the Netherlands), Chinese Ceramic Society (China) and Glass Society (United Kingdom) – introduced their associations to the other members during the first part of the session.

Then, all of the associations took turns explaining activities developed during the second half of 2018 and the first few months of 2019, with a special focus on seminars, technical meetings, lobbying and other areas of common interest that could potentially be emulated.

The second work day took an in-depth look at some of the topics already introduced on the previous day. Specifically, various proposals were made for projects that require the support of the greatest number of members possible.

Upon conclusion of the day’s session, master bead-stringer Marisa Convento held everyone’s attention as she spoke of the history and art of creating and stringing the glass beads typical of Murano and Venice. During her heartfelt presentation, Ms Convento delved into the unique and lesser-known aspects of an artistic-cultural business that is admired around the world for it tremendous artistic value but is now considered a ‘niche’, due to the limited number of “impiraresse” (bead stringers) capable of carrying on the tradition.

In light of the application for stewardship and assistance in support of a tradition that must not be lost, Ms Convento provided information about the proposal before UNESCO to designate the art of glass bead making and stringing an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

In the afternoon, the participants broke into three groups and set out to discover the wonders of Venice: the Grand Canal, the secrets of the gondolas and the Massimiliano Schiavon art glass studio.

“The annual Convention again proved itself a key event for the world of glass,” stated Dino Zandonella Necca, President of Vitrum and Chairman of the work sessions.

“The associations can compare notes in a unique, private setting where exchange is encouraged and growth is collective. The individual case-studies are a priceless asset in terms of ideas and potential for development – from manufacturing to historical, cultural and artistic research – and benefit all the delegations from the world of glass. The next meeting is scheduled to take place during Vitrum 2019,” continued Zandonella Necca, “an Exhibition that has become a veritable ‘Home of the Associations’, thanks in part to the outstanding partnership with ITA (Italian Trade Agency).

However, I like to think that the sharing of ideas and development of the projects discussed will continue over the months between now and Vitrum, thanks to the digital platforms, website and social media at the Community’s disposal. The sense of community among those in attendance continues to strengthen and this is an excellent sign that the projects will bear fruit. The shared vision of growth and development is palpable, as is the commitment of everyone involved, and I have no doubt that the results will soon be tangible as well”.

Representatives of the associations and the technical press who are members of the Community of Glass Associations can find the summary of the two days of sessions at

Any associations and technical journals that are not yet members but interested in joining can email the Community Secretariat at secretariat@communityofglassassociations.org

Associations in attendance:

• Abravidro
• ACHIVAL
• AIHV
• ATIV
• Bouwend Nederland, vakgroep Glas - GBO
• Chinese Ceramic Society
• Finnish Association of Flat Glass
• GGF
• GIMAV
• GLAAS Inc.
• ����ר�� for Europe
• ����ר�� Society
• ICOM
• International Commission on Glass
• NGA - GANA
• Slovak Glass Society
• Steklosouz - National United Council of Glass Industry

Technical press in attendance:

• Diamante Applicazioni & Tecnologia
• GFF - Glas Fenster Fassade
• Glas in Beeld
• ����ר�� International
• ����ר�� Processing
• ����ר�� Russia
• ����ר�� Technology International
• ����ר�� Worldwide
• Rivista del Vetro
• Świat Szkla
• US Glass
• Verre et Protections Magazine
• Vidrio Plano
• Vitrea

Countries represented:

• Australia
• Belgium
• Brazil
• Chile
• China
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Italy
• Holland
• Poland
• United Kingdom
• Russia
• Slovakia
• Spain
• Switzerland

Vitrum 2019 (Fiera Milano Rho, October 1-4) is the International Exhibition specialized in machinery, equipment and systems for flat and hollow glass and in glass and processed products for industry.

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