Early White Seaform Set, 1981

Blown glass; 18.2 x 47.3 cm

Francine and Benson Pilloff Collection

After studying with Harvey Littleton at the University of Wisconsin in 1966, Chihuly (1941 - ) moved on to the Rhode Island School of Design where he received his M.F.A. in 1968. In that year he received a Fulbright Scholarship to refine his skills as a glassblower by working at the Venini factory in Venice. In the 1970s Chihuly began to explore the possibilities of glass sculptures and developed surface decoration techniques. That decade also saw the formation of Pilchuck, the school and glassmaking center near Seattle with which Chihuly has long been associated. The loss of an eye put an end to Chihuly's personal activities as a glassblower, but he has continued to head a very productive group of glassmakers.