Beyond The Glass

The particular day that I went to this retrospective, fellow patrons numbered many. As a means of maintaining safety, viewers were held to small groups. Waiting for my turn, I viewed a video sharing the story of Chihuly’s career. I am glad I was able to do such. It enlightened me of the depth of this artist’s character as well as the impact of his talents.

Dale Chihuly’s life began in 1941 as a resident of Tacoma, Washington. His career journey led him to follow his passion of glass arts, receiving educational degrees from 3 universities. Before he was 30 years old, he was the recipient of a Fulbright Fellowship which allowed him to further his glass blowing techniques with true maestros of this select art on the island of Murano in Italy. Subsequently, he returned to the USA, co-founding the Pilchuck Glass Studio, an international center focused on glass education.

In the 1970’s Chihuly experienced 2 life-changing accidents which left him both visually and mobility impaired. His passion for his art was not fettered. Instead, he remembered his experience in Italy and began to form a team of artisans who would work together to create his artistic vision from his sketches.  Included among this group of uber-talented folk were the Italian master artists, Lino Tagliapietra and Pino Signoretto.

Together, this group produced the collection on view.  The Venetian Series (1988-1996) is comprised of a 5 part chandelier (the Murano Laguna Chandelier), original drawings, Piccolo (miniature) vases, and Putti (cherub) Venetians.  Vibrant colors, intricate forms, and fanciful ornamentation abound. Although great reverence is given to the original Venetian art form, a masterful hand has been applied to create a fresh and most energetic form of the art. I could only stand and stare, like a sponge wanton of content. My senses were reeling.