Chihuly Collection

The Chihuly Collection is a permanent display of work by the Tacoma-born artist Dale Chihuly.St. Petersburg’s collection is not only one of the most impressive, but is also presented in a building that was officially approved and partially created by the master himself. The charismatic glass sculptor enrolled in one of the country’s first university glass program in the 1960s. His work is very successful and unique, and Chihuly now has work featured in hundreds of galleries around the world.The Chihuly Collection is managed by the Morean Arts Center and set in 10,000 square feet (929 square meters) of custom-built architecture designed by Albert Alfonso. Because of its size, the museum is able to house some of the glass artist’s grandest works. On your way in, you can’t miss Chihuly’s 20-foot (6-meter) high sculpture, crafted especially for the collection.Highlights of the collection include the Ruby Red Icicle Chandelier and Tumbleweeds, scraggly glass shapes that illuminate the ceiling in various colors. Walk through an incandescent tunnel of glass and take in the intricate details of some of the finer glass art.Tours led by experts run every hour on weekdays and give you insight into the craft involved. To learn more about the artist’s career, watch the short presentation in the in-house theater.The museum store is an exclusive distributor of Chihuly merchandise. Browse the unique souvenirs and gifts, which include posters, books, art kits and studio-edition glass. The Chihuly Collection is located across from North Straub Park near St. Pete’s downtown waterfront. It’s open daily, but closed Sunday mornings. If you intend to visit the other Morean Arts Center attractions, buy a St. Petersburg Arts Experience ticket.