Collection: BENNY MOTZFELDT (1909 – 1995)

Benny Motzfeldt was a pioneering Norwegian artist, best known for her contributions to the world of glass art. Her innovative approach to glasswork transformed traditional techniques into strikingly modern and expressive forms, earning her a place among Norway’s most celebrated artists. Motzfeldt's career in glass artistry began relatively late, but her unique vision quickly garnered attention. She debuted as a visual artist in 1936 and continued this work until 1955, when she got a position as a designer at Christiania Glasmagasin. However, her interest in glass blossomed after a visit to the glass producer Venini on the island of Murano in Italy, where she fell in love with the artistic expression of the distinctive glass. 

From 1959, she designed works for Hadeland Glassverk, and the Benny series (1960) is today considered a design classic. Her piece Isfugl (icebird), also designed for Hadeland Glassverk, was purchased by the U.S. Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1963 as a gift for his wife, Alta Taylor, who was known by the nickname «Lady Bird.» From 1967, Motzfeldt served as artistic director at Randsfjord Glassworks until 1970, when she was approached by Per Tannum, who wanted her to take over the role of artistic director for the PLUS glass studio in Fredrikstad. She stayed at this position until 1979, before she wanted to focus more on art glass and exhibitions in the later years of her life. Motzfeldt passed in 1995. She became renowned for her experimental methods, often incorporating air bubbles, metal, and other materials into glass, creating pieces that seemed to shimmer with life and texture. This fusion of materials and her mastery of color and form brought her international recognition and admiration. Her work has been exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums across the globe, solidifying her status as a key figure in Scandinavian art. Motzfeldt's designs, often inspired by nature and the landscapes of Norway, reflect a deep connection to her heritage, yet transcend geographic boundaries through their universal beauty and innovation. Benny Motzfeldt ’s artistry was celebrated with numerous awards throughout her career. Among her many accolades, she was the recipient of the Norwegian State Art Award and the Jacob Prize, one of Norway’s highest honors for design and craftsmanship. Her work has been acquired by notable institutions such as the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design in Oslo, and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. She remains a symbol of artistic innovation, resilience, and the power of pushing creative boundaries.