Tonawanda Students Inspired by Chihuly

Today’s post is from Mr. Daniel Lynch, Art Teacher at Tonawanda Middle/High School in Tonawanda, NY.
Every year, eighth grade art students at Tonawanda Middle School work hard fundraising and planning for their trip to The Corning Museum of Glass. This year’s group was very excited and was quite inspired from their visit. For weeks prior to the trip, students began studying glass artist Dale Chihuly. They were able to view his artwork, watch video interviews, and learned how and why he creates the work he does. Students were amazed by his work at the Museum and began planning to make their own Chihuly-inspired piece. The two classes of 29 eighth grade students worked together to design and construct one beautiful, and very large, chandelier.

While visiting The Corning Museum of Glass, students learned that Dale Chihuly’s team recently visited the gallery and reassembled the Fern Green Tower that is prominently displayed at the front entrance. By viewing the images posted on the CMOG website, students were able to see how it was taken apart and how pieces were added to make it bigger. Just like Chihuly did, students created each individual piece for their sculpture and then carefully assembled it to create an aesthetically pleasing work of art. They even attempted to mimic the size and vibrancy of many of Chihuly’s pieces.

Students started by collecting recycled water bottles and removing the label. After discussing color and design, they began adding color to the bottles. By mixing acrylic paint and a little bit of water inside the bottle, students were able to realistically create the transparency of glass. Once dry, students cut each bottle in a spiral pattern and attached them to the chicken wire body that was created. To make the sculpture shine, colored Christmas lights were installed in the center body of the piece. Students learned that their hard work really paid off! The chandelier will be showcased in the upcoming Tonawanda City School District Art Show in early June for all students and parents to enjoy.

Student Artists: Gabrielle A., Bryan B., Ashley B., Melissa C., James C., Tyler C., Nicholas G., Nazariel G., Thomas G., Adam H., Ashton H., Matthew J., Jordan K., Carah K., Rachel L., Carter L., Lauren M., Connor M., Charles M., Julia N., Bryanica O., Bryan P., Dakota R., Casey R., Katelynn S., Ethan S., Keirsten S., Timothy T., Venessa V.

Teacher: Mr. Daniel Lynch