Dale Chihuly, the “it man” in the world of art glass, clearly prefers to let his stupendous pieces of spectacular art speak for themselves rather than pontificating on his work.
During a five-minute media meet-and-greet last week, Chihuly politely posed for pictures in front of the Monet Garden Pool at the Denver Botanic Gardens where an installation of the artist’s genius dots the grounds. The exhibition runs through Nov. 30.
He answered a couple of questions while cameras, notebooks and tape recorders pressed in. This man of few words lets his art do the talking, and it has a lot to say.
The exhibit, which features installations (some designed specifically for the Denver Botanic Gardens) at 14 sites is a don’t miss opportunity to bask in colorful beauty. Now that I’ve seen the show during the day, a nighttime return is on my short list.
This is the Rocky Mountain Region’s first major outdoor exhibition of artwork by the celebrated American artist. Chihuly’s sculptures – ranging in size and form – add bold colors and dramatic beauty to the Gardens’ 24-acre urban oasis.
Chihuly is credited with revolutionizing the Studio Glass movement and elevating the perception of the glass medium from the realm of craft to fine art. He is renowned for ambitious architectural installations around the world, in historic cities, museums and gardens.
While I was oohing and aahing over the Saffron Tower & Cattails in the Elipse Garden, a 30-foot-tall creation made of 312 hand-formed yellow neon tubes, the artist, decked by “handlers”, rode up to the site in a golf cart.
I asked him what he was thinking as he gazed at the Saffron Tower. “It has a lot of power, especially at night,” Chihuly said.
Well said. For more information and to buy tickets, go to www.botanicgardens.org/exhibits/outdoor/chihuly/about.
(Denver Botanic Gardens photos)
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