The Northwest is known the world over for its association with the studio glass movement, a reputation that was launched with the founding of the Pilchuck Glass School in 1971. With luminaries such as Dale Chihuly, Preston Singletary, and Ginny Ruffner studying and teaching at the school, western Washington became a hotbed for glass art. This installation explores the renowned school’s history and its continuing spirit of experimentation and innovation, and includes great examples of work from Seattle Art Museum’s collection by artists associated with Pilchuck.

Pink Macchia Single, 1986, Dale Chihuly, American, born 1941, blown glass, 17 1/2 x 26 x 25 in., Seattle Art Museum, Gift of Jon and Mary Shirley, in honor of the 75th Anniversary of the Seattle Art Museum, 2005.209. © Dale Chihuly, Photo: Paul Macapia.