“I’m a multidisciplinary, self-taught artist who works across a variety of media, including glass, textile design, fiber art and painting.

Inspired by my multilingual and multicultural upbringing in Israel, and by a subsequent lifetime of travel and exploration, my work celebrates the wonders of the world’s unique cultures by transforming them into art and design objects for people to cherish in their own homes and lives.

My creative process is intuitive: I received no formal training in any of the art forms that I practice in my studio  outside Washington D.C. I thrive in the freedom that comes with not feeling the need to follow any rules.

Whether sculpting vessels in a style inspired by the 1960s kiln-form studio glass revolution, exploring methods originating in the venerated tradition of Venetian glassblowing, or recalling in print the textiles of ancient bazaars –

I have learned to allow my instincts for color, design, and texture to guide my process.

I was born in Jerusalem to a large immigrant family at a time of profound political unrest and economic upheaval. I was one of 10 children, and I started working at the age of 12. We didn’t have the luxury of art or imagination. My childhood was challenging, but I was able to find solace and inspiration in the blending of arts and cultures that define this ancient and beautiful city. 

From a young age, I was captivated by how the Jewish, Roman, Christian and Islamic cultures wove together contrasting architectural styles to create a many-layered visual wonderland.

Varda Avnisan ‘Barcelona Vessel’ Glass 12”x12”x12 $1120

Varda Avnisan ‘Desert Twilight’ Glass 12”x13”x12 $1745

Varda Avnisan ‘Purple Haze’ Glass 12”x13”x12 $2100

Varda Avnisan ‘Coastal Sunrise’ Glass 12”x12”x12 $1120

Varda Avnisan ‘Blue Red Vessel’ Glass 12”x12”x12 $1120