Dale Chihuly Sapphire Blue Basket with Mint Lip Wrap Signed Original Painting 42” x 29.5”

Artist: Dale Chihuly
Medium: Original Painting
Title: Untitled (Sapphire Blue Bakset with Mint Lip Wrap )
Size: 42" x 29.5"
Year: c.2000
Inscription: Signed "Chihuly" on front in white
Documentation: Includes Gallery Certificate of Authenticity

Dale Chihuly, renowned for his mastery in glass art, brings the same innovation and creativity to his two-dimensional works, as seen in Untitled (Sapphire Blue Basket with Mint Lip Wrap). This original painting, measuring 42" x 29.5", captures the essence of Chihuly's famed glass baskets through broad, gestural strokes and vibrant color contrasts. The sapphire blue and black basket sits against a lighter blue background, evoking depth and movement.

One of the defining features of this piece is the mint green lip wrap, a striking contrast to the dark tones of the basket. This unexpected color combination is a hallmark of Chihuly's work, reminiscent of the bold choices seen in his handblown glass creations. The subtle interplay of colors in the background further enhances the focal point, drawing attention to the fluid, organic form of the basket itself.

Signed "Chihuly" in white on the front, this painting not only reflects the artist's iconic style but also demonstrates his ability to translate the dynamism of glass into paint. Just as in his three-dimensional work, Chihuly’s painting captures a sense of spontaneity and energy, offering viewers a fresh perspective on his exploration of form and color.

Accompanied by a Gallery Certificate of Authenticity, this piece is an exceptional example of Chihuly’s ability to transcend mediums while maintaining the bold, inventive spirit that has defined his career. Whether displayed as a standalone work or alongside his glass art, this painting invites viewers into the vibrant world of Chihuly's artistic evolution.

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 a world-renowned artist whose innovative approach to glass has redefined contemporary art. Best known for his large-scale glass sculptures and installations, Chihuly’s work transcends traditional boundaries of craft, blending fine art with breathtaking design. Over the decades, his creations have captured the imagination of audiences worldwide, making him one of the most influential figures in glassblowing, sculpture, painting, and printmaking.

Chihuly’s journey began during his studies in interior design at the University of Washington. After discovering his passion for glass, he pursued advanced degrees in sculpture from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), where he eventually became a professor. His education laid the foundation for his groundbreaking work, but it was his time as a Fulbright Fellow at the Venini Glass Factory in Venice that proved transformative. There, Chihuly immersed himself in the ancient techniques of glassblowing, which would become central to his art.

In 1971, Chihuly co-founded the Pilchuck Glass School in Washington State, which quickly became a global center for glass art innovation. His work in glass is distinguished by bold, organic forms and dynamic use of color. Signature series such as Macchia, Seaforms, and Persians are characterized by their fluidity and vibrant hues, while his Chandeliers have become iconic large-scale installations, gracing public spaces such as the Bellagio in Las Vegas and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. These chandeliers, composed of hundreds of individual glass pieces, demonstrate Chihuly's ability to create monumental works that dazzle viewers with their scale and complexity.

Chihuly’s approach to glass is highly collaborative. After a car accident in 1976 left him blind in one eye, he transitioned from personally blowing glass to directing a team of skilled craftsmen. This shift allowed Chihuly to take on increasingly ambitious projects, freeing him to focus on the conceptual side of his art. His work became more elaborate, with installations expanding into larger public and natural environments, allowing him to create immersive experiences through glass and light.

In addition to his work with glass, Chihuly is an accomplished painter. His paintings, often created with bold, sweeping strokes, are as dynamic and expressive as his glass works. Initially used as a means to communicate his ideas to his team, these paintings have evolved into standalone works of art. The energetic, abstract forms found in his paintings mirror the fluidity and vibrancy of his glass creations, showcasing Chihuly's versatility as an artist.

Chihuly has also ventured into printmaking, translating the dynamic qualities of his glass into two-dimensional works. His prints, like his glass and paintings, feature bright, unexpected color combinations and innovative forms, offering yet another dimension to his artistic output.

Throughout his career, Chihuly has pushed the limits of glass as a medium, transforming it from craft to fine art. His large-scale works can be found in museums and collections worldwide, and his exhibitions consistently draw large audiences. Despite the physical challenges that led him to step back from the physical process of glassblowing, Chihuly’s creativity and vision continue to shape the contemporary art world. His contributions to both glass art and painting have left an indelible mark on the art landscape, making him one of the most celebrated artists of his generation.