Marina Villani For Marina a pilgrimage to her birthplace in Italy’s North uncovered a passion for glass.  The need to conquer its idiosyncrasies became her driving force and unhampered by preconceived ideas and traditions she has been free to explore it's the endless possibilities. After five years of workshops, trial, error, and networking, Marina left behind a teaching career of thirty years to set up her studio at  ‘Myriad’, a 6 acre property on Brassy Hill, Kilmore. Here, Marina produces a vast array of kiln-formed glass-work and stained glass mosaics. The versatility of her medium is evidenced by the scope of her work.  From large architectural panels through to delicate items of jewellery, each piece is a journey of exploration and discovery Totally in awe of the contradictory qualities of glass as a medium. Marina expects the unexpected and encourages the surprise element.   This makes each piece versatile, exciting and unique. Some major commissions have included:  “The Miner” Fused studio-glass art panel commissioned to commemorate The  Blackwoods, Protector Alsafe And BHP Billiton Safety Contract 2007. “Portrait of Pyalong”.  Steel and Stained Glass Mosaic picnic table for the Mitchell Shire Council: 2006 Commonwealth Games Art Project. "Aquarium" a private commission. 2005 Fused and slumped inset for 900mm porthole window. “Seeds of Growth” prize winning fused glass trophies for Greater Western Chamber of Commerce & Industry 2005 "Commemorative Water Pyramid" for the 'Haemophilia Foundation', Melbourne. Slumped glass water feature with gold inscribed glass plaque. 2004.