Dale Chihuly and Art (or Craft)

The glassblower Dale Chihuly is one of my favorite artists, because there's something just fascinating about turning glass into these magical forms and colors. He also looks like a mad pirate. I first became acquainted with Chihuly at the Seattle Museum of Art, as the innaugural exhibition in SAM's new building in Volunteer Park. Since then, I've followed Chihuly's career with interest. He was also only one of four living American artists to have had shows at the Louvre when he showed his Persian series in 1986. In the mid 90s, he created an installation in Venice, which consisted of "chandeliers" hung in fourteen locations - over the canals. He lost an eye in a glass-blowing incident, so now he can only direct the creation of his magical pieces.

The Times talks about Chihuly in its article about museums accepting more craft-like art of glassmaking. The article also debates whether the word "craft" has a negative connotation to it, and apparently the former American Craft Museum, changing its named to the Museum of Art and Design. But their website's URL still says "americancraftmuseum.org".

You can see Chihuly in New York by visting the Liz Claiborne store on Fifth Avenue in midtown for these pieces. It's at 650 Fifth Avenue, between 51st and 52nd Streets.

Contact the author of this article or email tips@gothamist.com with further questions, comments or tips.

By Jen Chung in Arts & Entertainment on April 28, 2003 12:35 AM

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Gary Wiffler

Dale Chihuly has done so much for the art in our state. He should be listed as the artist of the year over and over.

glenda wiffler

Got the opportunity to meet Dale Chihuly and found him to be the most gracious man. My son was getting his picture taken and Dale insisted that I also be in the picture. He spent hours talking to people and drawing pictures for the children on whatever paper they had even napkins.

He has done more for art than any artist of our time with Hill Top Artists and his exhibits and gifts of exhibits in locations all over Tacoma and Puyallup. Thank you for your talent and that you care for all the young adults by giving them the opportunity to learn glass blowing at your expense. G. Wiffler

glenda wiffler

Hi,

Dale Chihuly is not only the best artist for this time from the Pacific Northwest, but he has sponsored many young artists to learn glass blowing at HillTop Artists. My son has disabilities in reading and was diagnosed with Aspergers, but he learned to blow glass. Dalin Wiffler is my son and he would love to follow Chihuly in his footsteps. Chihuly is also a very personable man that will shake everyone's hands and smile. I saw him draw a picture for a small child. Not only does his art beautify the community but he is a pleasure to meet in person.

I want to thank him for his support of the arts for Hill Top Artists students. This gave many young people a chance to have a career in glassblowing. Glenda Wiffler

Dalin Wiffler

Hi,

Thanks to Chihuly and HillTop Artists I got my start 8 years ago in glass blowing. I have studied under many good artists now and won many art shows. I have autism and ADHD. So this training was great for me. I would love to talk to Dale and I am hoping I can get more training in this wonderful field in the next year. Please visit my art at http://www.dalinsglassblowndesign.com or rainierleagueofarts.com. DALIN WIFFLER

253-922-7302 253-226-5516 or 253-926-0329.

Seymour Glass

Actually, Mr. Chihuly lost his eye in a car crash, not in any kind of work-related accident. Somewhat ironic, but there it is.

Ruth

I love Chihuly's work. I was happy to see a Gothamist article about it as I recently viewed some of his work here in Indianapolis after lamenting that we would probably never see it here. I am as fascinated with his "workstyle" as I am with his work. Chihuly is able to allow his large, trusted staff to carry out work in his name. I find this unusual for an artist.

sakana

i got to work on a chihuly exhibit once. mostly that meant days of opening boxes and polishing glass. i spent the whole week in a high state of anxiety, but managed to get through it without shattering any masterpieces.