One of the many things I love about living near Seattle is the vibrant art community – and particularly the abundant art glass found here.  I remember being fascinated and blown away by the exhibits of Dale Chihuly (yes, he’s from here) during the 2002 Salt Lake Olympics.Â
There are literally dozens of art glass studios as well as art institutes/schools here. I wander through the galleries and shop which featuring local artists and am inspired, wishing I had the light, display space and money to create a gallery of these piece in my home…Â
Blown glass, dichroic glass, leaded glass – jewelry, functional pieces and abstract art. I’d surround myself with this beauty if I could. Art is not cheap.
Over the past 4 1/2 years I have lived here (has it really been that long??) I have collected 4 stunning leaded glass snowflakes, created by Cheryl Parrott, and a couple of years ago received a fused/dichroic glass pendant from my cousin, Rob (I still love and wear it Rob!).Â
When Margie came to visit in October, I took her to a couple of my favorite local art shops where she, too, was astounded at the quality and quantity of local artistry. I think she must have noticed my longing glances (or perhaps my pulling on her arm to “look at THAT!”) at some of the art glass, because her Christmas gift to me this year was sending me out to pick my favorite glass piece.Â
Selecting the perfect piece took repeat visits to several galleries – but one piece just kept calling me back. When the owner said I could take it home and if it didn’t work, I could return it – I pulled out the American Express and she carefully wrapped it in bubble wrap.  Orange and and purple are not colors that will go with just any decor – but I had hopes that it would go in mine.  The moment it was unwrapped, I knew it would not be leaving my home – it’s PERFECT.  Â
It’s about 17″ across, and has a custom stand, and looks great in several places in my condo, but I decided it would make the ideal entry piece. Not sure if you can tell in this photo, but it almost glows when the light hits it. It sits right next to my front door – so I see it every time I leave my home, or walk down the hall to my bedroom. Â
Isn’t it beautiful?  Thanks Margie!
Do you have a favorite piece of art in your home?  Or art that you haven’t acquired but that continues to call to you?
That is really unique and beautiful–I can really see that in your condo. And what a nice gift from Margie!
That is gorgeous, mom! You have such great taste for art. That looks like it compliments your condo very well. Love it!
I love your taste! What a generous gift from Margie.
I have nothing art-wise in my home, the art on my walls was purchased at JC Penney…how sad.
I was in San Fransisco once looking around galleries and was able to see the original piece that was Uriah Heep’s Magician’s Birthday album cover. It was truly a moving experience…. 🙂 It was also huge, probably about 6 X 12 feet. I could have taken it home for a paltry $35,000, but alas, I didn’t.
Although it was fun to see everything in the Louvre in Paris, my favorite was Rodin’s musuem. I would like to have his “Gates of Hell” somewhere in my house.
Allison, you’d love the glass artwork here in New Orleans! Just awesome.