Chihuly Collection Brings Touch of “Glass” to St. Petersburg
provided by Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater CVB
Downtown St Petersburg just got another reason to be proud: the world's only permanent installation dedicated solely to iconic glass artist Dale Chihuly, opened its doors on Sunday, July 11.
This collection is situated just steps from St Pete's palm-dappled bayfront, residing in 10,000 sq ft of space on the first floor of the high-rise condominium building at 400 Beach Drive.
Already home to a number of world-class museums, dozens of art galleries and an assortment of diverse theaters, St. Pete's expansion of the arts has thrilled enthusiasts and critics alike.
In May, St. Petersburg checked in at the top of AmericanStyle Magazine's list of the 'Top Arts Destinations,' when the Sunshine City ranked #1 in the Mid-Size Cities Category.
The art displayed will showcase works created thoughout the Seattle-based artist's famed career and incorporate many of his signature glass-blown elements. Several large-scale installations-including Ruby Red Icicle Chandelier were created specifically for the Collection
In addition to the gallery, the space houses a theater for films on Chihuly's life and work and a retail store with a variety of merchandise from studio edition glass to posters and books.
A Glass Studio & Hot Shop will be located at the Morean's main facility on Central Ave. less than one mile from the collection where you an wach talented glass blowers perform, have your own glass blowing experience or purchase a unique piece created by a local artist.
Admission to the Glass Studio & Hot Shop also entitles you to tour the Morean's galleries and the current contemporary art exhibitions.
For the kids, the Morean features the Bank of America Children Learning Center, a hands-on learning environment with a wide range of programming, much of it relating to both the art and science of glass.
Admission for adults is $15.00 to view the Collection, $8.00 for the Glass Studio & Hot Shop or $20 for a combination ticket. The Collection is open 7 days a week and tours are available each day every half hour on the quarter-hour.
