Dale Chihuly Ongoing Exhibition at Museum of Glass

Dale Chihuly glass art at the exhibition of his work in 2005, in Kew Gardens, London, England. Photo in Public Domain.   Dale Chihuly may not make wearable art, but his jewels in glass are no less interesting to jewelry lovers. If you live in or visit Washington State, you have the unique opportunity to visit the ongoing exhibition of Chihuly glass at the Tacoma Museum of Art.  

Spotlight on Dale Chihuly

This special exhibition emphasizes the artistic innovation that Dale brings to glass. Specifically, the exhibit highlights nine intimate examples from the museum's permanent collection. Without doubt, the most spectacular piece on display is the Gibson Chandelier, a gorgeous study in color, texture, and shape. This stunning masterpiece hangs from floor to ceiling and features nearly every signature Chihuly shape and color. For more than 50 years, Dale Chihuly has experimented with glass as a medium. His passion and innovation continue to shape the Studio Glass movement. As a longtime supporter of Chihuly's work, the Tacoma Museum of Glass wished to honor the impact and contribution Dale has made in the world of glass art. That is what this ongoing exhibition is all about. In addition to the nine works on display, the exhibition includes a video presentation, photographs of the artist at work in the museum's Hot Shop, and a walking tour to see the Chihuly Bridge of Glass and Union Station Courthouse.  

Dale Chihuly, Master of Glass

Dale Chihuly happened upon the art of glass while studying interior design at the University of Washington. His interest in glass led him to enroll in the country's first glass program, at the University of Wisconsin. From there, he furthered his studies at the Rhode Island School of Design. In 1968, on a Fulbright Fellowship, Dale Chihuly began working at V.S.M. Venini & Co. in Burano, Italy. Burano lies in the heart of glass country, being very near to Murano. During his time in Italy, the fluidity of glass and the dramatic team approach to glassblowing completely captivated him. Three years later, after returning to the States, Chihuly co-founded the Pilchuck School of Glass in Washington State. His innovative work at the Pilchuck School of Glass has elevated glassblowing to the realm of fine art. Blending traditional and contemporary techniques in glassblowing, Chihuly pushes the boundaries of tradition. Abandoning the precise symmetry and functionality of factory glassworks, he creates bold designs with electric color, organic asymmetry, and captivating beauty. For more information about the exhibition, I invite you to visit the museum's website.