Chilhuly Garden and Glass

The first Chihuly art piece I ever saw was the Fiori Di Como, an awe inspiring glass sculpture displayed upon the ceiling in Bellagio’s lobby in Las Vegas. This is said to be one of his most famous works. Years later we spotted a few more pieces at Atlantis Paradise resort in the Bahamas which were equally as dazzling.

Chihuly Garden and Glass is a long term exhibition comprised of both indoor and outdoor installations located at the base of the Seattle Space Needle. The exhibition showcases the artist's staggering hand blown glass sculptures while also exploring the inspiration and influences behind his works. Dale Chihuly was first introduced to the glass blowing technique integral to his artistic process when while working at the Venini glass factory in Venice. Chihuly cofounded the Pilchuck Glass School in 1971 which led in the development of glass as a fine art.  His work can currently be seen in more than 200 museum collections worldwide.

The exhibition space was smaller than I expected but it was well curated with a progressive flow. The presentation is divided into eleven sections including a theater where you can view a four minute short film about the artist. In viewing his work up close, I can only describe it as beautifully colorful, delicate and intricate at the same time. Particularly impressive were the Glass House,  a 40 foot glass and steel structure with a stunning 100 foot long suspended sculpture and the bold and vibrant Persian Ceiling which was simply mesmerizing.  I even captured my husband taking his own photos in there. Be sure to check out my Seattle Travel Diary to see the rest of our vacation!

Are you familiar with Dale Chihuly's art? What's catching your eye here?

GLASS FOREST

SEALIFE ROOM

PERSIAN CEILING

MILLE FIORI

CHANDELIERS

MACCHIA FOREST

GLASS HOUSE

GARDEN