My Take On the Palmer

     Recently, I visited the Palmer Museum of Art at Penn State with my English 15S class. I frequent the Carnegie Museum of Modern Art back in Pittsburgh, so it was refreshing to see different collections and presentation style at this museum. One piece in particular really stuck out to me, probably because I am easily amused by bright colors and fancy shapes... Anyhow, here's my take on it:

     First of all, the piece is by Dale Chihuly and is pictured below.

Peacock Blue and Yellow Seafoam set with Yellow Lip Wraps

Analysis: When I first approached this piece, I was immediately drawn to the colors, and then noticed the structure afterwards. The smoothness of the glass coupled with the bright contrasting blue and orange (yellow according to the artist) created a very delicate and complex scene. The piece claims that the human brain is wired to compare what it sees to what it knows, in my opinion. I instantly think of an organic, ocean-based plant when I see this piece. However, on paper, it is simply blown glass of various colors and patterns. It reminds me of the types of plants you see when you watch the Discovery Channel simply because my brain wants it to find solid footing with something I know. Also, the rhetorical decision to place it in front of a window allowed it to be illuminated and more transparent than any other piece in the museum, assigning it a distinctly light feel. This could also add to the beach-like ethos appeal of the piece, or create another claim.

     After further review of this piece, it seems like it wouldn't be a stretch to say that it is arguing the fragility of the coral reef. The piece could easily fit into somewhere like this and maintain the same delicacy and beauty of it's organic surroundings. Although it is simply colored, blown glass, it displays the same characteristics of many aspects of coral reefs. It could house fish and sea anemone, as well as survive the temperatures and general climate of a typical reef plant. This could be an incredibly off-track inference made by a freshman in college, but I really think it has some connection to environmental and oceanic life.

     As for the credibility of Dale Chihuly, further investigation reveals that he is widely renowned for his blown glass work and has quite a following. His other works have been exhibited at many museums across the world and he has brought in a reported $26 million worth of sales. Viewing more of his work, as well, helped me understand the significance of the piece at the Palmer. It was placed alone by the stairway, rhetorically assigning it more emphasis than some of the other pieces of pottery placed side by side. Without knowing the credibility of the piece, I just viewed it as another cool piece, but, after further review, it tells me I was privileged to have seen a piece from such an accomplished artist.

Also, the dude has an eye patch - instant credibility in my book.

Closing Thoughts: Overall, the Palmer turned out to be a book that shouldn't be judged by the cover. The building itself seemed small compared to what I had been used to in Pittsburgh. However, upon entering and making my way through the museum, I realized that it contained much more quality art than I expected. I definitely imagine myself going back, especially because it is free and who doesn't love free stuff?! Hopefully they will continue to bring in new exhibitions and artwork throughout my years here, as I will be looking forward to a better experience than the last for every visit.

Do you agree/disagree with my views and inferences on this piece?

What is your opinion on eyepatches?

Know any good jokes?

Leave it in the comments!