We are very pleased to share this exhibition of the art of Bertil Vallien.
The works in this exhibition include his newest unique, sand cast sculptures, blown vessels, and a series of his limited-edition prints, the first time he has exhibited his two-dimensional work in the USA.
We would like to acknowledge Bertil’s great contribution to developing the medium of glass as an artform, which began in 1963 when he was invited to the Afors Glass Factory. Bertil’s work as an innovator has been instrumental to the development of the medium as an art form. His influence has had a profound effect on generations of artists through his teaching in Sweden, the U.K., and at U.S. institutions — Rhode Island School of Design, Urban Glass in NYC and The Pilchuck Glass School — where he has taught throughout the past 30 years.
Bertil’s work is transcendental in nature — imagined journeys which take us into the realm of the subconscious. His metaphysical Boats transport universal images, and these archetypal symbols speak on a primal level. The results are almost alchemical transformations, spanning from the primary material of sand, to the ethereal qualities of light transference through glass, to that of stone and metal. He continues to explore the range of possibilities of sandcasting techniques through continuous experimentation while advancing his artistic language.
Thank you Bertil for your great contribution to the arts. We are thankful for this work that brings us into the realm of the imagination.
Carl Jung said that “dreams are the guiding words of the soul.” Bertil Vallien continues to take us with him on this journey of the soul.
Jim Schantz and Kim Saul, 2019
