Dante Marioni, Clouds, 2011 (detail)kilncast glass, 8 x 12.5 x 1.25 inchesPhoto by: R. Johnson
Portland, OR – Bullseye Gallery presents Variations, a solo exhibition by Dante Marioni on view April 20 through June 25, 2011.
"I have never really been in love with all the obvious qualities of glass," says Dante Marioni, "I am more in love with the process and the traditions." Marioni's concentration on process and design propelled him to the forefront of the second generation of American studio glass artists, establishing him as a master at a notably young age. Inspired by nature, Marioni uses the visual language of the decorative arts to explore his fascination with technique and form. "Form is always my primary concern," explains Marioni. In particular, Marioni has been interested in forms that could only be achieved through blowing. For Variations, however, Marioni turns his keen eye to cast and kilnformed sculptures that break away from the vessel, goblet or chandelier and yet maintain the playful and meticulous qualities of his legendary blown works.
Dante Marioni grew up among many artistic influences. His father was involved in the American studio glass movement and, as a result, Marioni was exposed to the glass artists of the San Francisco Bay Area. After moving to Seattle, Marioni spent summers at the Pilchuck Glass School in Stanwood, Washington. Marioni learned the art of glassblowing from masters like Lino Tagliapietra, Benjamin Moore, and Richard Marquis. Marioni has taught and exhibited nationally and internationally. His work is included in the collections of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art; the Carnegie Museum of Art; the Smithsonian American Art Museum (Renwick Gallery); and the National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne.
Download: Dante Marioni, March 31, 2011