Bridge of Glass

In the heart of Tacoma, Washington, a radiant pathway of artistry and innovation beckons visitors from around the globe. The Bridge of Glass, a 500-foot pedestrian walkway, is more than just a means to traverse Interstate 705; it is a vibrant gateway that seamlessly connects the downtown area to the Museum of Glass, offering an immersive experience in the world of contemporary glass art.

A Vision Realized: The Creation of the Bridge

Conceived as a gift to the city and opened in 2002, the Bridge of Glass was designed by the renowned Texas architect Arthur Andersson. The bridge is adorned with stunning glass artworks by the celebrated artist Dale Chihuly, a Tacoma native whose work has captivated audiences worldwide. Chihuly envisioned the bridge as a welcoming portal to Tacoma, a place where art and architecture converge to create a unique urban experience.

This architectural marvel not only serves as a pedestrian thoroughfare but also as a public art installation that is accessible and free to the public 24 hours a day. At night, the bridge transforms into a luminous spectacle, its glass installations glowing with an ethereal light that can be seen from various points around the downtown area.

Artworks That Dazzle

As visitors step onto the Bridge of Glass, they are immediately greeted by three breathtaking Chihuly installations, each offering a distinct visual experience. The journey begins at the south end of the bridge with the Seaform Pavilion. This 15-meter-long covered section of the bridge features a ceiling adorned with 2,364 pieces of colorful, marine-life-inspired glass. The delicate and intricate designs evoke the beauty of underwater flora and fauna, casting vibrant hues and patterns onto the walkway below.

Continuing northward, visitors encounter the Crystal Towers. These two towering structures, each standing 40 feet tall, are composed of 63 individual crystals made from Polyvitro, a durable polyurethane material. Resembling giant pieces of turquoise rock candy, the Crystal Towers are a striking visual landmark, especially when illuminated at night. Their shimmering presence can be seen from various vantage points around Tacoma, adding a touch of magic to the cityscape.

The final installation, located at the north end of the bridge near the Museum of Glass, is the Venetian Wall. This 80-foot-long display features 109 individual showcases, each housing a unique piece of Art-Deco style glass art. Illuminated by fiber-optic lights, the Venetian Wall is a testament to Chihuly's mastery of color, form, and light. The vibrant and eclectic collection of glass sculptures captivates the imagination, providing a fitting prelude to the wonders that await within the Museum of Glass.

A Journey Through History

The Bridge of Glass and the Museum of Glass are products of a visionary effort to revitalize Tacoma's Thea Foss Waterway. In 1991, the city acquired 27 acres of the downtown waterfront, a site that was once one of the most polluted Superfund sites in the country. Through a collaborative effort involving the city, federal agencies, and approximately 70 companies responsible for the pollution, the area underwent a $103 million cleanup, transforming it into a vibrant cultural and recreational hub.

The idea for a museum dedicated to glass art emerged in 1992, when Tacoma civic and business leaders met with investor George F. Russell Jr. to discuss their vision. By 1995, Russell and his wife were named co-chairmen of the museum's board, and renowned architect Arthur Erickson was selected to design the museum. Initially conceived as a showcase for Dale Chihuly's work, the museum's focus expanded to include glass art from around the world, thanks to Chihuly's suggestion.

The Museum of Glass, the first establishment built on the cleaned-up Thea Foss Waterway site, opened its doors in 2002. The construction of the museum and the Bridge of Glass represented a significant investment in Tacoma's cultural landscape, with the museum costing approximately $48 million and the bridge $12 million.

Exploring the Museum of Glass

Upon crossing the Bridge of Glass, visitors arrive at the rooftop of the Museum of Glass. From here, they can follow a series of ramps bordered by additional outdoor glass installations to the museum's entrance or take an elevator to the first-floor parking area. The museum itself is a treasure trove of contemporary glass art, featuring rotating exhibitions, live glassblowing demonstrations, and a wide array of educational programs and workshops.

The Museum of Glass is not only a celebration of the art of glassmaking but also a testament to the transformative power of art and community. It stands as a beacon of creativity and innovation, inviting visitors to explore the limitless possibilities of glass as an artistic medium.

In conclusion, the Bridge of Glass and the Museum of Glass are must-visit destinations for anyone traveling to Tacoma. They offer a unique blend of art, history, and architecture, providing an unforgettable experience that celebrates the beauty and versatility of glass. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a unique and inspiring outing, the Bridge of Glass promises to leave you in awe of its radiant splendor.