Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows: A Legacy of Light in Chicago
For over a decade, the Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows served as a vibrant beacon of artistry at Chicago's Navy Pier. Opening its doors in February 2000, it distinguished itself as the first museum in the United States dedicated exclusively to the art of stained glass windows. By blending high art with an accessible, relaxed atmosphere, the museum provided a unique window into the evolution of glasswork in America.
Key Facts
- Location: Navy Pier, Chicago, Illinois.
- Operational Years: February 2000 to October 2014.
- Collection Size: Over 150 individual pieces.
- Specialization: The first American museum dedicated solely to stained glass windows.
- Admission: Free to the public.
A Diverse Collection of Glass Art
Named in honor of prominent Chicago collectors E.B. and Maureen Smith, the museum curated a vast array of works, many of which were salvaged from buildings within the Chicago area. The collection was organized into four distinct galleries, each representing a different era and style: Victorian, Prairie, Modern, and Contemporary.
The museum showcased the work of renowned artists such as John LaFarge, Adolfas Valeška, and Ed Paschke. While religious themes were prevalent, the museum also embraced secular and unconventional subjects. Notable highlights included a stained glass portrait of basketball legend Michael Jordan, a window crafted from recycled soda bottles, and Marie Herndl's intricate piece titled "Queen of the Elves" (also known as "The Fairy Queen").
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]The Richard H. Driehaus Gallery
Complementing the main museum, the Richard H. Driehaus Gallery of Stained Glass Windows opened in 2001. This specialized space focused on the ecclesiastical (church-related) and secular windows produced by Louis Comfort Tiffany and his associated businesses between 1890 and 1930.
Featuring the extensive private collection of Chicago businessman Richard H. Driehaus, the gallery displayed 11 Tiffany windows and a signature Tiffany Studios fire screen. This gallery remained open until September 2017, outlasting the main Smith Museum.
A Unique Visitor Experience
Located amidst the bustling shops and restaurants of Navy Pier, the museum was designed for accessibility. To ensure the colors and intricate details of the glass were fully visible, most pieces were illuminated with artificial light.
One of the museum's most distinctive features was its relaxed policy toward patrons. Because every piece of art was protected by bulletproof glass, visitors were encouraged to get close to the works. Curator Rolf Achilles famously noted that it was one of the few museums globally where guests could stroll through the galleries while eating an ice cream cone, emphasizing a philosophy of inclusivity over restriction.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Legacy and the Chicago Pedway
Although the museum permanently closed in October 2014, its influence persists in the city's infrastructure. In December 2013, the museum collaborated with Macy's to install 22 stained glass windows in the Chicago Pedway (the city's system of underground tunnels). These windows remain on public display today, serving as a lasting tribute to the museum's mission.
| Feature | Smith Museum of Stained Glass | Richard H. Driehaus Gallery |
|---|---|---|
| Opened | February 2000 | 2001 |
| Closed | October 2014 | September 2017 |
| Primary Focus | General Stained Glass (Victorian to Contemporary) | Louis Comfort Tiffany (1890–1930) |
| Key Artists | LaFarge, Valeška, Paschke, Herndl | Louis Comfort Tiffany |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows located?
The museum was located within the Navy Pier entertainment complex in Chicago, Illinois.
What made the museum's visitor policy unusual?
Because the artwork was protected by bulletproof glass, the museum allowed visitors to bring food, such as ice cream cones, into the galleries while viewing the art.
Who were some of the featured artists in the collection?
The collection featured works by John LaFarge, Adolfas Valeška, Ed Paschke, and Marie Herndl.
What happened to the museum's art after it closed?
While the museum closed in 2014, 22 windows installed in the Chicago Pedway in collaboration with Macy's remain on display.
What was the focus of the Richard H. Driehaus Gallery?
The Driehaus Gallery focused specifically on the secular and ecclesiastical windows created by Louis Comfort Tiffany and related businesses between 1890 and 1930.