A collection of glass artwork by internationally renowned Washington artist Dale Chihuly has found a new home at the Longview Public Library, thanks to a generous donation from the Art Renaissance Team (A.R.T.). The public is invited to celebrate the collection's unveiling on Saturday, November 14, at 11 a.m. at the library.
The donation, made in honor of the Longview Public Library's 100th anniversary, reflects A.R.T.'s vision of bringing world-class art to the community, making it accessible to everyone, and inspiring future generations through creativity and culture.
"The Art Renaissance Team is delighted to have the glass art of Dale Chihuly housed in the Longview Public Library on the occasion of its 100th year," said Retha Porter, Art Renaissance Team chair. "This gift of art to the Library is a fulfillment of a vision to bring world-renowned art to our community for the education and enjoyment of everyone."
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Chihuly, a Tacoma native, is recognized internationally for his innovative approach to glass art. He helped establish the Pilchuck Glass School in Washington, which has trained generations of artists and helped establish the Pacific Northwest as a center for glass art.
The donated collection features Chihuly’s Baskets works that showcase his distinctive use of color, form, and movement.
In a statement provided for the unveiling, Dale and Leslie Chihuly expressed their appreciation for the community's efforts to bring the collection to Longview.
"We're pleased to share this collection of Baskets with the Longview Public Library for the community to enjoy. Thank you to the Art Renaissance Team and to the generous individuals and businesses throughout Cowlitz and neighboring counties. Their fundraising efforts made the acquisition of these artworks possible in celebration of the Longview Public Library's 2026 centennial. We trust these works will bring joy and inspire conversations about art and creativity for many years to come."
Library Director Jacob Cole said the library is an ideal home for the collection because it provides an opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to experience art as part of their everyday lives.
"Art belongs where people already gather," said Cole. "Children especially benefit from being around art. It shows them that art is something people make, not something reserved just for museums, and that their own ideas and creativity matter. When a community sees art displayed in a public space, it builds pride and a sense of belonging."
The collection will be displayed in secure cases on the library's main floor near the music and audiobook collections, where it will be visible to visitors entering the building.
"Having Chihuly's work here connects our community to an important part of Washington's artistic legacy," Cole added. "We're grateful to the Art Renaissance Team and everyone who helped make this gift possible."
The unveiling is free and open to the public. Following the event, the collection will be available for viewing during regular library hours.
