The Palleys have helped to elevate glass-work from craft to fine art. To admirers of the art form, the names Howard Ben Tre, Jose Chardiet, Dan Dailey, and of course Dale Chihuly are regarded as rapturously as Picasso or Matisse. Pieces by all of these artists are on proud display; theyve been selected to show the evolution and range of their craft. There are molded pieces, blown glass, and work assembled by many; for example, Hank Murta Adams blown glass wheel was created by so many students that their names fill the wall behind the piece. And it isnt only glass there are also clay sculptures by late University of Miami professor Christine Federichi, fiber art by Ken Uyemura, and multi-element installations by William Morris, among others. The intention of the Palley Pavilion is to add enrichment to the lives of students while enhancing university education. But it aint a bad way for a regular art lover to while away an early afternoon, in the hours when sunlight still glimmers through the windows, catching light on almost everything in the room.
Dec. 17-31, 2008