DEARBORN, Michigan – The Henry Ford, known as one of the finest collections ever assembled documenting the American experience, recently acquired a large and important studio glass collection, announced by Patricia Mooradian, president of The Henry Ford.
Donation secures The Henry Ford’s American Glass Collection as one of the the top three collections in the United States.
Donated by Bruce and Ann Bachmann of Chicago, Illinois, the collection, numbering approximately 300 pieces, is an encyclopedic history of the Studio Glass Movement with representation of every artist of importance, many by multiple examples.
“This acquisition undeniably furthers the importance and significance of The Henry Ford’s distinct glass collection,” said Mooradian. “The Studio Glass Movement in the early 1960s was born out innovative thinking, innovation and ingenuity— characteristics at the very foundation of The Henry Ford. We are honored and delighted to bring the Bachmann collection to our institution for future generations to enjoy and be inspired by.”
Acquisition of the Bruce and Ann Bachmann Studio Collection elevates The Henry Ford’s collection of American glass to the third most significant in the United States and provides the institution’s guests the opportunity to view the complete story of American Glass from its origins to the present day. The institution is currently fundraising for a permanent Glass Gallery inside Greenfield Village’s Liberty Craftworks district.
The Studio Glass Movement began in 1962, when a group of individuals sought to create a movement where artists could explore the intrinsic qualities of glass without the need for factory production. They sought to work in a studio environment, like other artists. The movement evolved over a period of twenty years, maturing in the 1980s. Today, the Studio Glass Movement is recognized as a turning point in the history of glass, where a diverse range of artists produce unique works.