This is an outstanding museum with lots to see and do, so my review will be longer than usual. I guarantee that if you spend even just an hour here you will leave with a great appreciation of glass and the glass maker’s art and technology. The permanent collection is outstanding and covers glass from its origins in ancient Egypt to the advanced technology and art of today. There are many examples of ancient Roman glass, Renaissance glass, and art glass to dazzle visitors.
We were attracted to a special exhibition “In Sparkling Company: Glass and the Costs of Social Life in Britain During the 1700s”. Although some precious and lovely 18th century objects are on display, the show disappointed my companion and me. It is much smaller than the big, thick, glossy hardcover publication associated with the exhibit implies. Furthermore, its relentless and currently fashionable emphasis on slavery as the foundation of British wealth ignores other important wealth producers such as yeoman agricultural labor in the mother country, trade and transportation, as well as industries employing free labor including textiles, metalwork, building, publishing, brewing and distilling, animal husbandry, horse breeding, shipbuilding, furniture making, entertainment, and professional services, although the Vauxhall Gardens are mentioned.
There are other temporary exhibits up at the moment, including one on glass and wine making, very appropriate because the Museum is near the Finger Lakes wine producing region.
Don’t miss the live demonstrations. They are both entertaining and educational. You can make a reservation to create a glass object under the instruction of a glass maker. There is a large gift shop selling art glass, glass jewelry, toys and games, tableware and cookware, books, and many other beautiful and interesting things.
There is a good enough, moderately priced café on the museum campus.
This review just touches the highlights.
Odpowiedź od gospodarza
Aug 2021
Thank you so much for visiting us and taking the time to leave such a detailed review on your experience! We are so happy that you enjoyed our live demonstrations, the permanent collections, and our special exhibit Fire and Vine: The Story of Glass and Wine. We are sorry that In Sparking Company was smaller than you anticipated and did not live up to your expectations. We appreciate you sharing your experience with us, and we will make sure we pass on your comments to our exhibition and curatorial teams. We are thrilled that overall, your visit helped you to see glass in a new light! We hope to see you again soon!