As I was writing my post on all the wonderful glass exhibitions underway, HAILAGEDDON happened here in Dallas! Golf ball to Baseball size hail pummeled parts of Dallas, including the Dallas Arboretum. But not to worry! Yes, four elements of one Chihuly piece were shattered, but the Chihuly spokesperson assured the reporter that spares are always blown "just in case" of natural calamity. Chihuly has exhibited these large pieces throughout the country, including Florida (hurricanes!) and they have learned disaster planning the hard way apparently!

The new exhibition at the Dallas Arboretum of the glass artwork of Dale Chihuly is all the talk of the town - for good reason. It is a show that should not be missed!   Chihuly exhibitions are always a must see but the Arboretum setting makes this one extra special.   One thing I responded to particularly was the contrast between the inherent shininess of glass and the matte surface of nature.   Exploring the exhibit is like a treasure hunt filled with wondrous objects in different shapes, colors  and textures -- it will make you smile. image: http://www.americanwaymag.com/dale-chihuly-dallas-arboretum-entertainment-more In conjunction with the Chihuly exhibit is Master Glass 2012 exhibition taking place throughout Dallas in over a dozen individual art galleries and art institutions.  This exhibition is presented in three parts and  brings over 30 nationally known and local artist whose primary medium is glass. The first phase ended June 9, however many of the  artists from that phase will also be featured in Part 2 which runs from June 16 - July 14 and will debut with an opening reception from 6 - 9 pm on Saturday,  June 16, at the Ro2Art Gallery.  The third phase of the MasterGlass exhibit will feature educational talks, demonstrations, classes and glass installations  to be scheduled through November. Don't forget to check out recent works  by Dale Chihuly at Talley Dunn Gallery through August 18. I have always been fond of both sculptural glass art and functional glass art and have always made glasswork a part our offerings.