The Fort Collins Museum of Art presents Chihuly Venetians. From the George R. Stroemple Collection an exhibition on view December 14, 2011 – March 18, 2012.
There are few contemporary artists whose names are as synonymous with the medium in which they work as Dale Chihuly. Chihuly is widely regarded as the most innovative glass artist working today. Active since the 1960’s, Chihuly is credited as a major contributor to the development of the American Studio Glass Movement, which will be celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2012.
Featured in this exhibition are works from Chihuly’s Venetians series, which are intricately formed and brilliantly colored glassworks inspired by art deco Venetian glass from the 1920’s and 1930’s. Included in the exhibition is a magnificent 5-part chandelier that has two components hanging from the ceiling and 3 that come up from the floor. The Venetians were begun in July, 1988 with Lino Tagliapietra and Rich Royal as gaffers.
A number of Chihuly’s drawings will also be on exhibition, that serve as independent works of art and “blueprints” to communicate and inspire his glassblowers to bring his designs to life and to improvise on the themes he created. – www.ftcma.org