Dale Chihuly Signed Seagreen Macchia Pair Hand-Blown Glass Sold Out Portland Press Edition

Artist: Dale Chihuly
Title: Seagreen Macchia Pair
Medium: Hand Blown Glass
Large vessel measures 6.5" x 9.5" x 7"
Small vessel measures 3.5" x 5.75" x 5"
Year: 2005
Signed: Signed "Chihuly PP05" on smaller vessel
Documentation: Includes Gallery Certificate of Authenticity

Dale Chihuly's Seagreen Macchia Pair exemplifies the artist's innovative approach to hand-blown glass art. Created in 2005 as part of Chihuly's celebrated Macchia series, this two-piece sculpture showcases a striking combination of color and form. The Macchia series, first developed in 1981, was inspired by Chihuly's desire to explore the nearly 300 available colors of glass rods, resulting in works that feature dynamic and unexpected color combinations. The term "Macchia", meaning "spot" in Italian, reflects the distinctive speckled patterns that define the series.

The vibrant seagreen base serves as the dominant color for both the interior and exterior, evoking a sense of natural vitality and depth. A signature contrasting yellow lip wrap adds a bold accent, emphasizing Chihuly's mastery of balancing intricate details with vibrant hues. The majority of the piece's characteristic spots are rendered in a sleek, modern black, with subtle highlights of deep red and yellow, creating a refined yet playful visual texture.

Measuring 6 1/2" x 9 1/2" x 7", the sculpture demonstrates Chihuly's unparalleled ability to manipulate molten glass into dynamic, organic forms. The Seagreen Macchia Pair is inscribed by the artist and comes with a gallery certificate of authenticity, affirming its provenance and place within Chihuly's extensive body of work.

The Seagreen Macchia Pair is not only a vibrant addition to the Macchia series but also a striking representation of Chihuly's enduring legacy as a pioneer in contemporary glass art.

About Dale Chihuly

Dale Chihuly, born on September 20, 1941, in Tacoma, Washington, is one of the most prominent and influential glass artists of the contemporary era. Known for his vibrant and innovative works, Chihuly has redefined the possibilities of glass as a medium for artistic expression, elevating it from craft to fine art. Over the course of his career, he has captivated audiences worldwide with his monumental installations, intricate sculptures, and pioneering techniques.

Chihuly's fascination with glass began during his studies at the University of Washington, where he initially pursued interior design. A turning point came in 1965 when he melted glass for the first time, sparking a lifelong passion for the medium. He went on to earn a Master of Science degree in sculpture from the University of Wisconsin, where he studied under renowned glass artist Harvey Littleton, and later obtained a Master of Fine Arts from the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). At RISD, Chihuly not only honed his craft but also helped establish the school's glass program, where he would later teach and inspire a generation of glass artists.

Chihuly's artistic journey has been marked by a relentless drive to innovate. In 1968, he received a Fulbright Fellowship to study glassblowing at the prestigious Venini factory in Murano, Italy. This experience introduced him to centuries-old techniques and deepened his understanding of the material's potential. Upon his return to the United States, he co-founded the Pilchuck Glass School in Stanwood, Washington, in 1971. This institution became a cornerstone for the development of contemporary glass art and remains a world-renowned center for glassblowing education.

Chihuly's approach to glass is characterized by a bold embrace of color, scale, and form. His works often defy traditional notions of symmetry and balance, celebrating organic, fluid shapes that mimic the beauty of the natural world. Some of his most famous series include Macchia, Persians, Seaforms, and Chandeliers. The Macchia series, for example, was born out of his desire to use all 300 colors of glass available at the time, resulting in pieces that burst with vibrant, unexpected combinations. His Chandeliers, meanwhile, are grand, multi-element sculptures that often span several feet in diameter and transform spaces with their dazzling complexity.

A significant moment in Chihuly's life occurred in 1976 when he was involved in a car accident that left him blind in one eye. This injury prevented him from directly handling molten glass, but it led to a pivotal shift in his creative process. Chihuly began working as a director, leading teams of glassblowers to execute his vision. This collaborative approach not only expanded the scale and ambition of his work but also underscored his belief in the power of teamwork and community in the creative process.

Chihuly's art has been exhibited in museums and galleries worldwide, including the Louvre in Paris, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. His large-scale installations have adorned botanical gardens, historic landmarks, and public spaces, bringing his vibrant creations into the lives of millions. Notable projects include Chihuly Over Venice (1995-96), Chihuly in the Light of Jerusalem (1999), and the establishment of Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle in 2012, a permanent exhibition space dedicated to his work.

Throughout his career, Chihuly has received numerous accolades, including honorary doctorates and awards recognizing his contributions to the arts. Despite challenges, including his partial blindness and bipolar disorder, Chihuly continues to innovate and inspire, pushing the boundaries of what glass can achieve as an artistic medium.

Dale Chihuly's legacy is one of brilliance, resilience, and creativity. His transformative approach to glass has not only redefined the art form but has also left an indelible mark on contemporary art, inspiring generations of artists and art enthusiasts alike.