Glass Spilleth Over

You might feel like a bull in a china shop while visiting the stunning new exhibit of glass sculptures at the Lowe Art Museum. Local collectors and University of Miami alumni Myrna and Sheldon Palley have donated their $3.5 million glass collection, amassed during 30 years, to the museum. The collection includes works by Dale Chihuly, Marvin Lipofsky, Harvey Littleton, and Therman Statom, among others. It consists of more than 300 pieces, and more than a hundred are on view at the recently minted Palley Pavilion at the Lowe, the first major addition to the museum in 12 years.

During the private dedication ceremony last month, UM president Donna Shalala said, “Thanks to their generosity, their vision, and their passion, we see the Lowe transformed.” UM’s Art and Art History Department is only one of two in Florida that offer glass-blowing classes — and the Palley Pavilion will be an invaluable resource for students, school officials say. Following a private reception, the exhibit is open for public perusal from noon to 7 p.m.
Thu., June 12, 2008