Manolo Aguilera

Emmanuel “Manolo” Aguilera is a glass artist originally from Veracruz, Mexico, now based in Seattle. His work draws from his indigenous heritage, blending ancient symbolism with contemporary glassblowing to explore identity, transformation, and cultural memory.

Trained in historic Venetian glass techniques, Manolo is known for his fluid forms and refined craftsmanship—a fusion of tradition and innovation. He has worked closely with artists including Dale Chihuly, James Mongrain, Davide Fuin, and Ross Richmond, among others, shaping a practice grounded in both precision and storytelling. His experience includes time at Pilchuck Glass School, DF Glassworks in Venice, and Haystack Mountain School of Crafts. Recent highlights include the Kanik Chung Fellowship at MassArt and the El Noroeste exhibition at Tacoma Art Museum. His work continues to contribute meaningfully to the vibrant Northwest glass community.