Joseph BenVenuto

Joseph BenVenuto: Translucent Legacy //

Conversations In Glass, Friendship, and Practice

Although Joe’s name may not be familiar to collectors, it carries great significance in the glass community. Joe BenVenuto (1963–2017) was one of those rare people who, despite being a truly exceptional artist and craftsman, never sought acclaim. Joe worked as Preston Singletary’s principal studio assistant for more than 15 years, while maintaining his own studio practice and coldworking business. He was a father, friend, mentor, master gardener, teacher, and tireless advocate for his community of artists. Friends and colleagues describe Joe as a person who worked in ways that supported and strengthened those around him, recalling his attention to detail and his willingness to handle the parts of the process that others relied on but rarely saw.

We are very proud to present this important memorial exhibition, Joseph BenVenuto: Translucent Legacy // Conversations In Glass, Friendship, and Practice. Presented in collaboration with Lisa Liedgren Alexandersson and Preston Singletary, this exhibition traces Joe’s studio practice and the enduring, impactful role he played in the studio glass community. For the first time, his work will be formally exhibited in a gallery setting, given it the long-overdue attention it deserves. Joe’s meticulously crafted, refined sculptures and fused glass panels reflect the colors and textures of that which inspired him the most – the beauty he found in nature. Surrounding Joe’s exhibition will be a collection of works by 13 of Joe’s closest friends and collaborators, each one made in tribute to Joe and reflecting his lasting influence.

Featured artists include Sean Albert, Lisa Liedgren Alexandersson, Jeremy Bert, Nancy Callan, Joe David, John de Wit, Jen Elek, Dan Friday, Robbie Miller & John Drury (CUD), Preston Singletary, Dave Walters, and Dick Weiss.