By Nanette Wiser
St. Petersburg is known for its glass artists, galleries, and museums. You can watch or learn to blow or cast glass, enjoy artists’ talks and world class exhibits and illuminate your spirit with these magical glass havens.
CHIHULY COLLECTION This stunning, permanent collection of world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly is only one of two museums in the world dedicated to this living legend. My favorite is the captivating hues of his “Sunset Persian Wall,” an homage to St. Petersburg, the sunset capital of the world. This presentation is unique as it is the first installation of Chihuly art in a building designed specifically for that purpose. Designed so that the art and architecture work together to create a visitor experience unlike any other exhibition of Chihuly’s art, the Collection is marked at the entrance by an iconic 20-foot sculpture created especially for the site. The Collection includes Chihuly’s spectacular large-scale installations such as Ruby Red Icicle Chandelier created specifically for the Collection along with several popular series works including Macchia, Ikebana, Niijima Floats, Persians and Tumbleweeds, which have thrilled audiences around the globe. www.moreanartscenter.org
MOREAN GLASS ARTS STUDIO Get behind the scenes and observe resident glass artists creating unique works of art. All of the pieces created are for sale in the adjacent glass shop. Get inspired and take a glass art class or book a one-time hands-on glass experience! Glassblowing demonstrations are included with your Chihuly Collection tickets. 714 First Ave. N. www.moreanartscenter.org
IMAGINE MUSEUM Featuring a spectacular collection of contemporary glass art from around the world, this gem is an international treasure in the Grand Central District. Explore over 500 glass art masterpieces, all dramatically lit to transport you into a world of beauty, mystery, and mastery in 34,000 square foot of gallery space. The artworks showcase the evolution of the studio glass art movement of artists that have turned it into contemporary masterpieces of color, motion, and light. $5 Thursdays 5-8pm is a popular event and the museum gift shop offers curated gifts for every budget, perfect for Valentine’s Day to make your intentions crystal clear. 1901 Central Ave. www.imaginemuseum.com
