Dale Chihuly

other

September 20, 1941

83

Dale Chihuly is an American artist who is best known for his innovative and vibrant hand-blown glass sculptures. His most famous works include elaborate and intricate glass installations such as the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit in Seattle, Washington. Chihuly has also collaborated with other artists to create large-scale works, including a glass ceiling at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas. Other notable works include the Fiori di Como at the Bellagio, The Sun at Kennesaw State University, and the Persian Ceiling at the Museum of Glass in Tacoma, Washington. Chihuly has received numerous awards for his work, including twelve honorary doctorates and a lifetime achievement award from the American Craft Council.

Dale Chihuly was born with the name Dale Patrick Chihuly in Tacoma, Washington. He is named after his father, George Chihuly, who was a meatpacker and a union organizer. Dale Chihuly’s mother, Viola Magnuson, was a talented musician and a member of a local symphony. Chihuly began using the name Dale Chihuly professionally after he enrolled in a weaving class in college and the instructor mispronounced his last name as “Chihuly” instead of “Chihuly.” He liked the sound of the mispronunciation and decided to use it as his professional name.

Dale Chihuly lost his left eye in a car accident in England in 1976. Since then, he has relied on a team of glassblowers to execute his designs. He continues to direct the team and oversee the production of his work. Despite the loss of his left eye, Chihuly has continued to produce incredible and intricate glass sculptures that have been displayed in museums and galleries around the world.