Lino Tagliapietra, born on Murano, in 1934, apprenticed with Archimede Seguso at the age of twelve. He achieved the title of maestro, the highest title bestowed on a glassblower, after nine years of assisting. Subsequently , he worked at several of Murano's most celebrated factories: Galliano Ferro, Venini, Effetre International, and La Murrina (which he founded). A massive shift in the Studio Glass Movement began in 1979 when Tagliapietra accepted Benjamin Moore;s invitation to teach at the Pilchuck Glass School in Seattle, WA. There, he established many enduring professional contacts and continuing relationships with students.