John Pomp is known around town for his minimalist glass sculptures and colorful vases. But the Tyler School of Art grad has made a name for himself in the national design world as well: Pomp produced work for the J.Crew and Donna Karan New York flagship stores and recently handcrafted 100 limited-edition decanters for Napa Valley’s Newton Vineyards, an industry pioneer of sustainable winemaking. Here, Pomp gives us the dish on his favorite things and what inspires him most.
Current work space/studio: South Kensington/Fishtown
Personal style: Natural, honest and classically modern
Most challenging job: The Royalton Hotel project, which consisted of making 25 custom brass fixtures and chandeliers with more than 75 pieces of hand-blown glass—all within three months
Most cherished art books: Pioneers–Products From Phaidon Design Classics, Volume One by Phaidon and Wabi-Sabi for Artists, Designers, Poets & Philosophers by Leonard Koren
Favorite artist: Lino Tagliapietra, the world’s finest glassblower
Favorite local art space: The Nakashima House in Bucks County
Dream vacation: A motorcycle trip through Japan
Personal muse: I’m inspired by nature and all things living.
On making a mark: It’s important to me that people know what I make is truly handcrafted, so I try to [illustrate that] with my pieces. The design of the Touch decanter exemplifies that sensibility. My hands formed every dimple in the center of the glass.
John Pomp’s works are available at select boutiques and galleries throughout Philadelphia. For more information visit johnpomp.com.
