THE DESIGNER: GABRIELE STAMEY
Gabriele Stariney was born on May 22, 1956, in Worgl, a small
town in the foothills of the Austrian Tyrol, far removed from
the
hustle and bustle of modern city life. From an early age, she
decided
to follow her chosen vocation as an artist. After an intensive
four-year course of study at the world famous technical school
for
glass craft and design in Kramsach, she began her successful
career
specializing in free-blown goblets.
Between 1978 and 1986 she established a name for herself as a
freelance glass designer, while at the same time pursuing an
avid
interest in glass painting and leaded windows.
Finally, in 1986, she started working for Swarovski,
where she soon won recognition with her designs for
Silver Crystal. Many Silver Crystal lovers still
remember with pleasure Gabriele Stamey's first
designs for the gift and collectible line: these include
the ever-popular "Miniature Cockerel", "Miniature
Hen" and the three lovable "Miniature Chicks" from
the "Barnyard Friends" series. She then proved her artistic
talents
even more convincingly with a magnificent interpretation of
the
"Santa Maria" Columbus' flagship on his voyage to the New World.
By way of relaxation from the demands of her job, Gabriele Stamey
enjoys spending time with her family and pursuing her hobbies,
which include walking, swimming, art and music. The dragon is
her
first creation for Swarovski Collectors Society. Designed with
great
finesse, her interpretation of this mythological beast reveals
a
profound understanding of her subject and takes the crystal
lover
into the wonderful world of fable and fantasy. |
