Glimmering swirls and curls rise before us. This is the Stained Glass Water Tower Sculpture. It is a vibrant ode to San Antonio. The sculpture stands tall in the Central Library.
The Stained Glass Water Tower Sculpture is also known as Fiesta Tower. Dale Chihuly, a famous glass artist, created it. The San Antonio Public Library commissioned the sculpture for its centennial. It was unveiled in 2003.
The multicolored glass symbolizes San Antonio’s diverse cultures. Each piece was hand-blown. Then, it was crafted into place. The pieces seem to unfurl toward the heavens.
The Stained Glass Water Tower Sculpture is a sight to behold. It stands 26-foot tall. It is a monstrosity of vivid glass orbs and pieces. The tower is near the study tables. It is on the second floor of the library.
During the day, sunlight highlights the Stained Glass Water Tower Sculpture. After sunset, 22 lights shine on the glass. This gives the sculpture a new life. The lights illuminate different areas.
The Stained Glass Water Tower Sculpture is massive. It weighs 4500 pounds. The glass alone weighs 3500 pounds. It has 917 pieces of individually blown glass.
Cleaning the Stained Glass Water Tower Sculpture requires a specialized team. The team removes each piece. Then the team cleans and replaces each piece. This is done using a scissors lift. The public can watch the cleaning process.
The sculpture was created in Chihuly’s Washington studios. Each piece was packaged and shipped to San Antonio. It was reassembled one piece at a time. The pieces are on rods inside the support structure.
Chihuly said that San Antonio was his muse. He said the glass is a metaphor. It reflects the diversity of people and culture. The Stained Glass Water Tower Sculpture stands in the heart of the library. The library itself is in the heart of San Antonio.
Visitors enjoy the Stained Glass Water Tower Sculpture. Many try to count the glass pieces. But it is easy to lose count. The sculpture draws people in with its beauty.
The library offers more than just the Stained Glass Water Tower Sculpture. It has thousands of books and media. There is an art exhibit gallery. You can admire tetra fish. A waterfall fountain flows outside. Visitors can spend a day at the library. They can admire art or read a book.
The Stained Glass Water Tower Sculpture is a centerpiece. It adds to the library’s charm. It is a symbol of pride for the city. It showcases how cities can be progressive. They stay true to their roots. This artwork is a beacon. It celebrates San Antonio’s vibrant citizens.