In October 2023, Anne Felicie Nickels had the honor of exhibiting her glass artwork, Human Formula, at the XIV Florence Biennale—an international event renowned for its celebration of contemporary art and design. The Biennale, which took place from October 14th to 22nd at the historic Fortezza da Basso in Florence, Italy, explored the theme “I AM YOU—Individual and Collective Identities in Contemporary Art and Design.” This edition of the event featured over 600 artists from 85 countries, with more than 1,500 artworks displayed across 11,000 square meters of exhibition space.

The Florence Biennale stands as a critical platform for dialogue in the art world, offering artists the chance to present their work on a global stage. The event highlights the complex relationship between personal identity and collective experience, creating a vibrant space for artists to express their unique perspectives.

Anne’s artwork, Human Formula, is a thought-provoking piece created in 2023 under the guidance of the esteemed glass artist Narcissus Quagliata. Using transparent glass and the technique of glass fusing, the piece investigates the inner workings of the human brain, exploring how our bodies and sensory experiences are interpreted and “formulated” by our minds. The artwork highlights the very process of how we calculate and define our own sense of self, exploring who we are in relation to the world around us. It delves into the complex mechanisms of perception, showing how we constantly process and interpret our experiences to form our identity. Each element of the work reflects the interconnectedness of our bodily senses and how they are processed by our cognitive systems, offering a glimpse into the intricate nature of perception and thought.

Under the mentorship of Quagliata, known for his transformative contributions to the medium of glass, Anne was encouraged to push the boundaries of traditional glass art. Quagliata’s works, such as the monumental Dome of Light in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, and the glass dome at Michelangelo’s Santa Maria degli Angeli basilica in Rome, have reshaped the way glass is used in artistic practice. Anne’s exploration of glass as both a medium and metaphor reflects her own fascination with light, transparency, and the mind.

Exhibiting at the Florence Biennale was an enriching experience for Anne, allowing her to engage with a diverse community of artists and art lovers from around the world. The event offered not only an opportunity to showcase Human Formula but also a platform to engage in meaningful discussions about the role of art in shaping and reflecting both individual and collective identities.

Anne’s participation in this prestigious event was a significant milestone in her artistic journey, and she is excited to continue exploring the depth of human experience through the medium of glass in her future works.