Like the surprisingly mesmerizing glass paperweight collection at The Art Institute, the glass sculptures at Marx-Saunders Gallery showcase the trials and achievements of working in such a specialized medium. With almost 40 artists shown or represented, the gallery exposes the techniques and varied styles of glass art derived from both industrial sources and pure experimentation. Mainstream recognition of the relatively recent Studio Glass Movement from the mid-twentieth century (specifically with Rene Lalique's designs) continues today with the work of contemporary local and international artists represented at the gallery.

Located in the River North gallery district, Marx-Saunders is expanding an already sizable space including a library, lecture areas and several exhibition galleries. Shapes move and colors pop in the natural light and bright spaces at the gallery, where some may say the art exists as pure objects of beauty.

This internationally prominent gallery also maintains a strong presence among the art fair circuit.

Centerstage Reviewer: Heather Blaha