Frank Lloyd Wright’s Impact on Glass Sculptor Dale Chihuly

Frank Lloyd Wright, one of America’s greatest architects, created designs, work, and environments to foster creativity that influenced artists of all mediums. One such person is world-renowned glass artist and sculptor, Dale Chihuly.

You can see Chihuly’s and Wright’s work in one place, complimenting architecture with glass sculptures in nature, during Chihuly in the Desert, running from December 3, 2021 – June 19, 2022.

How were you first introduced to Frank Lloyd Wright’s work?

His influence on design was ubiquitous when I was growing up. That is one of the things I have admired about him – that he was such a prolific designer and architect. Mastering any art form is really about the practice, itself. Had he not done so many buildings he would not have become the revered architect that he continues to be.

As a child, what about Wright’s work impacted your mind, creativity, or perspective?

Everything he did – from designing interiors, furniture, and textiles, to architecture, he did to please himself, creatively. He designed and built what excited him and that is what people responded to, why his work has had such an impact.

How do you look at Wright’s work differently as an adult compared to when you were a child?

I used to consider the final design or building – and I still do, however, today I have a better understanding also of the commitment to an idea, regardless of the challenges, which was required to have achieved what he did in his career.

Is there anything else about Frank Lloyd Wright or his work that you would like to share with us?

Architectural design plays a key role in how I approach my work. This opportunity to present my work against the inspiring architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright and in this spectacular desert landscape is an incredibly meaningful moment.