Tacoma Museum Presents Exhibition By Dante Marioni

Marioni is known for his mastery of Venetian glassblowing techniques. In his hands, the traditional vessel is transformed into modern sculpture with shape and surface simultaneously minimalist and delicately complex. His elegant vessels are compelling for their bold colors, striking geometries, graceful forms and impeccable finishes. Most of the forms he chooses are utilitarian in nature (vases, pitchers and cups) but he challenges viewers' perceptions of these objects by increasing their scale and incorporating the decorative brilliance that has defined glassmaking for centuries. For Dante Marioni, the art of glassblowing—rather than the blowing of glass art—is the ultimate purpose.

The exhibition explores the ways Marioni has been inspired by both historical and contemporary glassblowers. Drawing upon the centuries-long artistic conversation about classical design, proportion, and aesthetics that dates back to the ancient roots of the art form, he is also influenced by the teachings of contemporary mentors, such as Lino Tagliapietra, to create a style distinctively his own.

Included in the exhibition are pieces from Marioni's personal collection dating back to the early 1990s. A Conversation with the Artist lecture and slide presentation is scheduled for March 16, 2008, at 2:00 p.m. in the Museum of Glass theater. A catalog accompanies the exhibition. -- www.museumofglass.org