19 Jul Chihuly: World-Renowned Blown Glass Art in the Upstate
Known for his hand-blown glass sculptures that often double as ambitious architectural installations, Dale Chihuly is perhaps one of the most iconic American artists living today. With public exhibitions all over the world, people admire the light, color, and unique perspective each piece displays. Though his work draws crowds from all over the world, thankfully, Upstate residents don’t have to travel far to see it. Take a quick trip to downtown Greenville, Wofford University in Spartanburg, or the Biltmore Gardens in Asheville for a look at his iconic hand-blown glass.
In Greenville, a Chihuly sculpture sits in Harriet’s Garden, a small garden at the West End of Falls Park. In 2015, the sculpture was revealed to honor the late Harriet Wyche. A lifelong Greenville resident and chairwoman of the Carolina Foothills Garden Club, Harriet was instrumental in the development of Falls Park. The sculpture, named “Rose Crystal Tower” represents Harriet, and her favorite flower of roses, perfectly.
Enter Wofford College’s Rosalind Sallenger Richardson Center for the Arts to be greeted by Chihuly’s Persian Ceiling in the lobby. The striking piece is a variety of warm shades of red, orange, and yellow. Two beautiful Chihuly pieces were commissioned for the center for arts in honor of the Richardson family. The family worked closely with the Chihuly team on the commissioned pieces and even sent images of the changing leaves and foliage in the fall – which inspired the warm tones.
Chihuly at Biltmore serves as the first art exhibition in Biltmore’s gardens and the first garden exhibition of Chihuly’s work in North Carolina. Enjoy the installation of the breathtaking glass sculptures in an equally breathtaking natural setting through October of this year. Plus, Chihuly Nights is an event that provides an opportunity to view the work in yet another way. Enjoy a wine bar and live music as you watch the sunset over the glass with the Blue Ridge mountains as a stunning backdrop.
These three Chihuly exhibits in the Upstate are a reminder that our area is continuing to grow as a leader in the arts community. With world-renowned and local artists regularly showcased, the Carolinas are creating an environment where art is appreciated and celebrated!
