The Chihuly Collection in St. Petersburg, Florida, is currently hosting a special exhibition titled “BURST” by renowned textile artist Akiko Kotani. This installation, on view from December 14, 2024, through March 8, 2025, is located at 720 Central Avenue and is included with general admission to the Chihuly Collection.
“BURST” is a dynamic installation that captures the formidable power of nature through vibrant color and form. The artwork comprises large, crocheted panels crafted from satin, arranged in undulating waves that appear to burst forth from the gallery walls. The cascading satin waves, rendered in shades of pink and burgundy, create a visual spectacle that envelops the gallery space, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in its flowing forms.
Amanda Cooper, chief curator at the Morean Arts Center, describes Kotani’s installation as “a perfect fit for the featured artist space here at the Chihuly Collection.” She notes that both Kotani and Dale Chihuly draw inspiration from nature and share a passion for vibrant color and form, delighting audiences with installations that transcend traditional gallery boundaries.
Akiko Kotani, born in Waipahu, Hawaii, holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting from the University of Hawaii. She furthered her studies in textiles, earning a Master of Fine Arts from Tyler School of Art in Pennsylvania. Her artistic journey includes time in New York City’s TriBeCa area and studies in Mayan weaving in Guatemala, experiences that have significantly influenced her contemporary textile work. Kotani has also served as a Professor of Art at Slippery Rock University and at Koç University in Istanbul, Turkey.
In conjunction with the exhibition, the Chihuly Collection will host an artist talk and cocktail hour featuring Akiko Kotani on February 7, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This event offers attendees an opportunity to gain insight into Kotani’s creative process and the development of the “BURST” installation. Admission to the event is $20 for Morean Arts Center members and $40 for non-members, including two complimentary drink tickets.
The Chihuly Collection, managed by the Morean Arts Center, is renowned for its permanent collection of Dale Chihuly’s glass artworks. The inclusion of Kotani’s textile installation provides a compelling juxtaposition, highlighting the versatility and expressive potential of different artistic mediums inspired by natural forms.
Visitors to the Chihuly Collection can experience “BURST” during regular museum hours. For more information on the exhibition and related events, please visit the Morean Arts Center’s official website or contact the Chihuly Collection directly.
This exhibition not only showcases Akiko Kotani’s mastery of textile art but also enriches the cultural tapestry of St. Petersburg, offering residents and visitors an opportunity to engage with contemporary interpretations of nature’s power and beauty.
