Posts Tagged With: Chihuly sculptures

Tacoma, July 16 Tuesday

Tacoma is the birthplace of Dale Chihuly, a well-known glass sculptor. We went with Pat and Harold to the Tacoma Museum of Glass and the Glass Bridge. These two places were initial linchpins in the redevelopment of the Tacoma waterfront and are tied directly to Chihuly and his international reputation.

The Museum may have been initially focused around Chihuly but now exhibits major artists in glass sculpture from around the world. The current exhibit ties together the pacific northwest with Australian glass artists. It presents glass art with a vision I had not expected. As an example, the exhibit features pieces that resemble textiles or paintings.

Inside the museum is also a “hot shop” where artists work while visitors view. There is also a program whereby amateurs can develop their own piece with oversight by an artist. Their web site has a live streaming camera view during operating hours.

Part of the redevelopment of the waterfront included the Bridge of Glass. This bridge to the museum is set over the interstate below that leads into downtown Tacoma. The pedestrian bridge is comprised of three sections. First is a walkway with glass art sculptures encased in the ceiling. Looking like sea creatures, it gives the feeling of walking underwater.

Second are two glass towers in seafoam green-almost the color of some of the lakes and rivers we saw in Canada which had rock dust in them. They rise some 40 feet above the walkway and although we did not experience it, are lit at night.

Third is a section with glass sculptures embedded in a clear wall. You walk by and view about 100 glass sculptures.

All of this viewing made us hungry so we had lunch at A Renaissance Cafe. Small, locally owned and food was great. Posters on the wall and psychedelic posters in the restroom. Keith the owner served us.

Dinner with Pat and Harold with leftovers from last night’s Italian dinner and dessert from Trader Joe’s.

Ed and Chris July 16 9:30 pm