
Fired Up: Why Hot Glass is the Coolest Exhibit in Delray
- Cornell Art Museum
- Chiara Padejka
- February 5, 2025
- 5 min read
For those in the Palm Beach area for the season, look no further than the Cornell Art Museum’s Hot Glass Exhibit to immerse yourself in the warm embrace of local and international glass art. Discover surprising and stunning glass creations in Delray, curated in collaboration with Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts. The exhibition include exceptional pieces from South Florida glass artists as seen in Netflix’s epic competition “Blown Away”. For the collectors, select pieces from the collection are also available for purchase upon inquiry.
The exhibit features a variety of techniques and forms, not limited to stained glass, cast glass, fused glass, blown glass, kiln-formed, and flameworking. Upon entrance, visitors will be greeted by a swirling, orange chandelier. Glass pieces from the dramatic functional piece twinkle on the ceiling, leading visitors to the main gallery. Located on the ground floor, Hot Glass is easily accessible to all with disabilities. Because the exhibit’s rooms feature different aesthetic themes and methods, there truly is something for everyone to explore.
Starting off with the roots of the ancient craft - those familiar with the traditions of Murano, Venice will be sure to spot the signature codes and flair of the world’s ancient glass capital. Despite featuring the iconic design element the glass island is known for, the Italian corner pushes the envelope beyond its icons to accomplish remarkable feats. Unmissable is David Salvatore’s “Chittamara”. The tremendous instrument is masterfully blown and carved.
Beyond the outstanding work of international artisans, the exhibit also features creations closer to home. Palm Beach’s Eli Cecil, known for his fantastical bonsai trees, pays homage to the Italian masters with his voluptuous candy-colored vessels. One would almost mistake them for imports! His Renaissance collections draws heavily from the Murano trade, but infuses his personal American twist. His pastel wall collection “Supernovas” is memorable.
While many South Florida glass artists like Eli look to travel for inspiration, whether in Italy or Japan, others implement elements of their immediate surroundings. Since the sunshine state is renowned for its beautiful beaches, aquatic sea life, and lush vegetation, it is no surprise that natural notifs grow in several corners of the gallery. Local artists steal the scene here by capturing the aquatic creatures and wildlife around them. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the medium’s vivid interpretations of flora and fauna.
West Palm based artist Chadd Lacy’s Squid chase is one such playful piece. Her glass blown multi-piece scene depicts shiny dolphins chasing a delicate squid. Gliding on the wall, the monochromatic glass dolphins provide the lively illusion of fast movement through water. Pieces that feature complementary collective groups, such as colorful schools of fish or pods of dolphins, seem to be a recurring trend.
Joshua Fradis, a glassmaker from Palm Beach Gardens, makes his mark with his simple but regal “Ruby” and “Purple Jellyfish” works. Whimsical, the glass jellyfish float against the wall, as though swimming upwards underwater.
In addition to popular local animals, those who prefer mythical or fictional creatures will have their tastes satisfied by Jason Christian’s blazing “Winged Dragon”, a fiery-red creation that is bound to stop visitors in their tracks. The glass facets and intricacies are astounding and will no doubt draw in anyone with an eye for detail.
Hot Glass also delineates fantastic feminine works. Standouts in cast-figuring glass include Alexis Silk’s “Feminine Suspense”. The striking flower ornamented tan female torso, suspended by a three-dimensional black box frame, is reminiscent of Boxing Helena. Furthermore, JoAnne Berkow’s “Amber” showcases an Art Nouveau-esque female figure, intertwined with growing amber vines and florals. The piece’s earthy tones and layered textures collectively work together to mark this captivating glass woman shine.
From amateurs to curators, the level of craft and creativity in Hot Glass is bound to leave an impression on all art lovers. Visitors should make sure to pay a visit to the gift shop, where they can bring home a token of their visit home. The shop includes a quaint selection of glass necklaces, bracelets, figurines, and more eclectic wonders.
Those unable to attend Hot Glass before its close in late February can look forward to the next exhibit: Icons of Art Italian Mosaic Portraits, on view through June. The collection will feature thirty unique mosaics of pop culture icons, including David Bowie, Sofia Loren, Kobe Bryant, Lady Gaga and more. The museum is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Museum hours and more specifics can be found on their website.
Link to Museum Profile
Cornell Art Museum’s Hot Glass Exhibit
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