Artist: Dale Chihuly
Medium: Original Painting
Title: Untitled (Ice Blue Basket)
Size: 42" x 29.5"
Year: c.2000
Inscription: Signed "Chihuly" on front in black
Documentation: Includes Gallery Certificate of Authenticity
Dale Chihuly, celebrated for his groundbreaking innovations in glass art, seamlessly brings the same boldness and creativity to his original paintings. "Untitled (Ice Blue Basket)" is a striking example of Chihuly's ability to translate his fluid, three-dimensional forms into the two-dimensional plane. Measuring 42" x 29.5", this piece features a luminous blue basket set against a tonal blue background, creating a sophisticated and modern visual experience. The harmonious blend of hues showcases Chihuly's mastery of color, echoing the refined elegance often seen in his iconic glass works.
The composition of "Untitled (Ice Blue Basket)" evokes the fluidity and motion that define Chihuly's celebrated basket series. With broad, sweeping strokes and a carefully curated palette, the painting captures the essence of his handblown creations, translating the physicality of glass into a dynamic painted form.
Signed prominently on the front in black and accompanied by a Gallery Certificate of Authenticity, "Untitled (Ice Blue Basket)" stands as a testament to Chihuly's interdisciplinary approach, blurring the lines between painting and sculpture. This painting offers collectors a rare glimpse into the full breadth of Chihuly's artistic vision, embodying both his technical skill and creative spirit.
Please note: This painting is not currently framed, but can be framed by us in-house in the style of your choosing.
About Dale Chihuly
Dale Chihuly, born in 1941 in Tacoma, Washington, is an American artist renowned for revolutionizing the art of glassblowing and pushing the boundaries of contemporary art. Over the course of his career, Chihuly has become one of the most influential and widely recognized artists in the world, known for his large-scale glass installations, vibrant color palettes, and innovative use of form across multiple mediums, including painting and printmaking.
Chihuly's journey into the world of glass began while he was studying interior design at the University of Washington. After receiving his degree, he continued his education, earning a Master of Science in sculpture from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a Master of Fine Arts from the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). It was during this period that he first became captivated by glass as a medium. His interest in glass was solidified when he received a Fulbright Fellowship to study at the Venini Glass Factory in Venice, where he learned traditional glassblowing techniques that would later inspire his groundbreaking work.
In 1971, Chihuly co-founded the Pilchuck Glass School in Washington State, which became a vital hub for contemporary glass artists. His innovative approach to glassmaking involved moving away from solo production and instead employing a team of skilled craftsmen, allowing for the creation of larger, more ambitious pieces. This collaborative method gave Chihuly the freedom to explore new possibilities in glass design, resulting in some of his most famous works, including his large-scale chandeliers and environmental installations.
Chihuly's glass works are known for their fluid, organic forms and bold use of color. His fascination with light and transparency is evident in his various series, such as the Macchia, Seaforms, Persians, and Chandeliers. These pieces often combine vibrant, contrasting hues and unusual shapes, creating a sense of movement and energy that captivates viewers. His chandeliers, in particular, are monumental works that have been installed in public spaces around the world, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the Bellagio in Las Vegas, and the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston.
In addition to his work in glass, Chihuly has made significant contributions to painting and printmaking. His paintings, which began as sketches to communicate his visions to his team, evolved into their own distinct body of work. These pieces, often featuring broad, sweeping strokes and vivid colors, echo the forms and themes of his glass creations. Chihuly's paintings are celebrated for their spontaneity and expressiveness, offering a glimpse into the mind of an artist constantly exploring new ways to convey beauty through color and form.
Throughout his career, Chihuly has faced personal challenges that have shaped his artistic evolution. A car accident in 1976 left him blind in one eye, and a subsequent shoulder injury further limited his ability to blow glass. However, these setbacks led him to take on more of a supervisory role in his studio, directing a team of artists and craftsmen to execute his visions. This shift allowed Chihuly to continue pushing the boundaries of glass art while expanding into other mediums like painting and drawing.
Chihuly's work can be found in over 200 museum collections worldwide, and he has been the subject of numerous exhibitions, both in the United States and internationally. His installations have transformed spaces ranging from botanical gardens to public squares, captivating audiences with their scale, color, and intricate craftsmanship.
Today, Dale Chihuly is not only a pioneer in the world of glass art but also a multidisciplinary artist whose work spans glass, painting, and printmaking. His bold use of color, innovative techniques, and collaborative approach have cemented his legacy as one of the most important contemporary artists of our time. Whether through his monumental glass installations or his vibrant paintings, Chihuly continues to inspire awe and wonder in viewers across the globe.