Dale Chihuly Signed Chinese Red Seaform Pair with Black Lip Wraps 1995 Signed Portland Press Edition

Artist: Dale Chihuly
Title: Chinese Red Seaform Pair with Black Lip Wraps
Medium: Hand Blown Glass
Largest piece measures 5.5" x 10.5" x 7.5"
Smallest piece has a 3.5" diameter
Inscription: Signed and inscribed with "PP95" for Portland Press Edition 1995
Year: 1995
Documentation: Includes Gallery Certificate of Authenticity

This vibrant Chinese Red Seaform Pair with Black Lip Wraps by Dale Chihuly exemplifies his iconic ability to transform glass into fluid, organic shapes inspired by the beauty of the ocean. Chihuly's seaforms are often known for their ethereal, tranquil qualities, but this red pair introduces a sense of passion and vitality with its deep, rich color. The juxtaposition of the bold red hue with the signature black lip wraps creates a dynamic and visually striking contrast.

The largest piece measures 5.5" x 10.5" x 7.5", with delicate, undulating edges that mirror the movement of sea life. The smaller piece, with its 3.5" diameter, complements the larger form in both shape and design. Both pieces feature Chihuly's characteristic striped pattern, adding texture and visual interest, while the flowing forms and translucent surfaces evoke the natural fluidity of water. Chihuly's Chinese Red Seaform Pair is a captivating example of his mastery in glass art, combining vibrant color with delicate form to create a work that is both visually powerful and serene. It is a must-have for collectors who appreciate the unique beauty and craftsmanship of Chihuly's signature style.

Chihuly's Chinese Red Seaform Pair set is inscribed with "PP95," indicating its inclusion in the exclusive 1995 Portland Press Edition, and is signed by Chihuly. Purchase also includes gallery certificate of authenticity from Modern Artifact.

About Dale Chihuly

Dale Chihuly (b. September 20, 1941, Tacoma, Washington) is one of the most renowned and influential glass artists in the world. Known for his revolutionary work in the medium of glassblowing, Chihuly has redefined the art form with his large-scale installations, bold use of color, and organic, fluid designs. Over the course of his five-decade career, he has transformed glass from a craft into a fine art, with his work exhibited in some of the most prestigious museums and collections worldwide.

Early Life and Education

Chihuly's fascination with glass began during his youth, but it wasn't until after a series of life events that he fully immersed himself in the medium. He studied interior design at the University of Washington, where he first encountered the material that would become central to his artistic vision. After a brief stint working as an interior designer, Chihuly's curiosity about glass led him to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, home to the first glass program in the United States, where he studied under Harvey Littleton, a pioneer of the American studio glass movement.

Chihuly later earned an MFA from the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) and studied at the prestigious Venini glass factory in Venice, Italy, where he was exposed to traditional Venetian glassblowing techniques. His time in Venice played a pivotal role in shaping his collaborative approach to glassmaking, which relies on teams of skilled assistants, allowing Chihuly to push the physical and creative limits of the material.

Career and Artistic Development

In 1971, Chihuly co-founded the Pilchuck Glass School in Stanwood, Washington, a major center for glass art that continues to influence artists around the globe. His early work in the 1970s focused on small-scale vessels, but he quickly began to explore larger, more ambitious projects. Over time, Chihuly moved away from creating functional glass objects and instead embraced glass as a sculptural medium, using it to create intricate, large-scale installations that engage space and light.

One of his most famous innovations is the Seaform series, inspired by the natural forms and colors of the ocean. These undulating, translucent shapes capture the fluidity of water, embodying Chihuly's ability to mimic nature's organic forms in glass. Another hallmark series is the Macchia series, characterized by vibrant colors and mottled patterns, which are achieved through the use of color rods, powders, and a layering process that creates dramatic effects.

Chihuly's most iconic and celebrated works, however, are his large-scale, site-specific installations. His monumental glass sculptures, such as Chihuly Over Venice, The Sun, and Mille Fiori, have transformed indoor and outdoor spaces worldwide, from botanical gardens to museums and historic buildings. His installations often include thousands of individual blown-glass elements, which, when assembled, create immersive, otherworldly environments.

Challenges and Continued Success

Despite a series of personal challenges, including a car accident in 1976 that blinded him in one eye and shoulder injuries that limited his ability to blow glass, Chihuly has continued to push the boundaries of glass art. His physical limitations led him to develop a collaborative approach, in which he directs teams of skilled glassblowers to realize his vision. This team-based process has allowed him to scale up his work and achieve the large, intricate installations for which he is known.

Legacy

Dale Chihuly's impact on the art world is immense. He has transformed the perception of glass as an artistic medium, elevating it to a form of fine art that commands attention on a global scale. His work has been exhibited in major museums such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. Permanent exhibitions of his work, including the Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle, stand as testaments to his enduring influence.

Chihuly's mastery of color, form, and scale, combined with his innovative approach to teamwork and installation, has solidified his reputation as one of the most important contemporary artists of our time. His ability to transform molten glass into delicate, mesmerizing works of art continues to captivate audiences around the world, ensuring his legacy for future generations.