2012 News Releases
50th Anniversary of the American Studio Glass Movement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT: Janet Peterson, Marketing & Public Relations Director
TEL: (856) 825-6800, Ext. 108 | FAX: (856) 825-2410
E-MAIL: jpeterson@wheatonarts.org
WHEATONARTS CELEBRATES THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE AMERICAN STUDIO GLASS MOVEMENT
MILLVILLE, NJ – WheatonArts is participating in the 2012 nationwide celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the American Glass Studio Movement, initiated by the first glass workshops held at the Toledo Museum of Art in 1962. Three exhibitions have been planned to enhance visitors’ appreciation of contemporary glass.
The Museum of American Glass will offer an overview of the movement as well as valuable reference with works of pioneer artists using glass. The exhibit, “Pioneers of American Studio Glass: Edris Eckhardt, Maurice Heaton and Frances and Michael Higgins,” opened in January and continues through December 31, 2012. The show illustrates the work of these four artists who worked in glass prior to the renowned Toledo workshop. During the 1940s, '50s and '60s, these artists experimented with different techniques resulting in sculptural forms that ranged from slumped to pâte de verre. Once overlooked, today these artists have come to be appreciated for their dedication and creativity which fostered new interest in utilizing glass as art.
The “Celebrating 50 Years: American Studio Glass” exhibit opens March 31 in the Museum of American Glass and continues through December 31, 2012. This exhibit will provide viewers with a comprehensive history and understanding of the American Studio Glass Movement. Works selected from the museum’s permanent collection will represent the founders of the movement and the subsequent generations of artists that have brought esteem to the field.
In celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the American Studio Glass movement, The Gallery of Fine Craft will present, “The Fire Continues,” from May 19 to July 1, 2012. This exhibit and sale will showcase work by invited contemporary American Studio Glass artists such as Paul Marioni, Pamela “Pike” Powers and Stephen Paul Day.
With over 7,000 objects on display, the Museum of American Glass has one of the most comprehensive collections of American glass in the world…from the first glass bottles made in America to celebrated works by Dale Chihuly and other contemporary artists who work in glass. It is one of eight museums in New Jersey accredited by the American Association of Museums.
The Gallery of Fine Craft offers one-of-a-kind contemporary sculpture including the master work of Paul Stankard. Along with sculptural works, The Gallery presents a diverse range of fine crafts in glass, ceramics, wood, metal, textile and mixed media and a broad selection of glass jewelry from established and emerging artists and studios.
WheatonArts is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday only from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in February and March. The Museum of American Glass and the museum stores are open. The Education/Folklife Center and Artist Studios are closed. Admission is free during these months. WheatonArts returns to its six-day operating schedule, Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on March 31. All facilities are open and admission is Adults $10.00, Senior Adults $9.00 and Students $7.00. Children five and under are free. It is free to shop and stroll.
For more information about WheatonArts, call 1-800-998-4552 or 856-825-6800, or visit online at www.wheatonarts.org. To learn more about the 50th Anniversary of the American Studio Glass Movement visit www.toledomuseum.org.
WheatonArts strives to ensure the accessibility of its exhibitions, events and programs to all persons with disabilities. Provide two weeks notice for additional needs. Patrons with hearing and speech disabilities may contact WheatonArts through the New Jersey Relay Service (TRS) 800-852-7899 or by dialing 711.
Funding has been made possible in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, by funds from the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation. WheatonArts receives general operating support from the New Jersey Historical Commission, Division of Cultural Affairs in the New Jersey Department of State. Additional funding provided through a grant from the New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism.
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