Chihuly Collection
The Chihuly collection is a must-see for anyone visiting St Petersburg and it is sure to amaze. Come see the blown glass sculptures that have made Chihuly one of the most celebrated artists of our time. The Chihuly collection is located across the street from the Morean Arts Center on Central Ave, this permanent collection of world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly is displayed in a 10,000-square-foot building. The entrance is dominated by the iconic 20-foot sculpture of cerise-colored rocks and the inside is brimming with intricate glass works. Pieces showcased in the building that are particular highlights include “Persians,” “Tumbleweeds” and “Ruby Red Icicle Chandelier.”
Chihuly is a pioneer of the studio glass movement, he is credited with transforming the methods of creating glass art and thereby leading the development of complex, multi-part glass sculptures and environmental art. Over the years the artist has created a number of memorable installations including “Chihuly Over Venice” with the sculptures installed over the canals and piazze; “Chihuly in the Light of Jerusalem”, attended by more than one million visitors, and the “Chihuly Bridge of Glass” in Tacoma, Washington.
When you are visiting the Chihuly Collection, make sure to give yourself enough time to visit the Morean Art Center and Glass studio located across the street. Recent visitors found the small museum stunning and highly recommend the glass-blowing demonstration. The demonstration is held at the Glass Studio & Hot Shop, located in the nearby Morean Arts Center. The studio also offers a 30-minute, one-on-one session with a demonstration artist where you can create your own masterpiece and view the collection for $19.95. Individual visits to the collection and gift shop cost $14.95 for adults. All of the pieces of art displayed at the Morean Art Center are available for purchase.
With so many amazing works of art on display, the Morean Arts Center and Chihuly Collection are definitely worth the visit while you are in St Petersburg, Fl. The museum is located central to many downtown activities and is open 7 days per week. There are also many restaurants within walking distance if you would like to grab a bite to eat before leaving the area. The Chihuly Collection is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. For more information, visit the Morean Arts Center’s official website.