Taranaki has a proud history of innovation and artistry, and this vase represents a part of this tradition. Tony Kuepfer created this bottle between 1979 and 1986, and it is one of approximately 250 which he made during this period. Tony is originally from Portland, Oregon and moved to Inglewood in the mid 1970s. He pioneered hot glass blowing in New Zealand, setting up a studio and showroom in a converted church. He also taught others methods of glass blowing, and Tony’s beautiful glass pieces helped New Zealanders to see glass as art as well as a functional material. Today New Zealand has a vibrant community of artists working with glass, including in Taranaki.