Hank Murta Adams was inducted into the American Craft Council's College of Fellows in 2016, joining the ranks of preceding Fellows including Lenore Tawney, Sam Maloof, and Betty Woodman. Here, he discusses his career and longtime involvement at WheatonArts.
Dale and Doug Anderson are celebrated figures in the world of contemporary glass art, known for their extraordinary contributions as collectors and patrons of the craft. The Andersons have spent decades curating one of the most comprehensive and influential collections of studio glass, with an emphasis on showcasing the artistry and innovation of glassmakers from the 20th and 21st centuries. Their passion for glass art began in the 1980s—Dale met gallerist Doug Heller in the '70s and became enamored by the glass in his gallery—and quickly grew into a lifelong pursuit to preserve, support, and elevate the field. Reflecting on their journey, Doug remarked in a 2005 interview with curator Tina Oldknow, "We never intended to become collectors. One piece turned into a second, and then suddenly it was something much larger."
"Collecting is not just about ownership; it’s about fostering relationships with artists and sharing their vision with the world." - Dale Anderson
The Andersons collect a diverse range of art, from Northwest Coast tribal art to contemporary photography, but are particularly recognized for their commitment to the Studio Glass Movement, a pivotal moment in art history that redefined glass as a medium for creative expression rather than mere functionality. Their collection includes works by iconic glass artists such as Dale Chihuly, Lino Tagliapietra, Harvey Littleton, and William Morris, among countless others. Speaking about their affinity for the movement, Dale has noted, “What drew us in was the energy and innovation—it felt like being part of something transformative.” Beyond amassing an impressive array of works, the Andersons have actively supported emerging and established artists through philanthropy, commissioning new works, and organizing exhibitions that bring glass art to wider audiences, in addition to developing close friendships with many artists (Chihuly, Toots Zynsky, and Flora Mace and Joey Kirkpatrick, to name but a few).
Their dedication has made a lasting impact on the art world...to date, Doug has donated more than 1,200 works from their collections to 14 museums in the United States and London.
Their dedication has made a lasting impact on the art world, with pieces from their collection featured in prominent museums, galleries, and cultural institutions; to date, Doug has donated more than 1,200 works from their collections to 14 museums in the United States and London. As Dale eloquently expressed, “Collecting is not just about ownership; it’s about fostering relationships with artists and sharing their vision with the world.” Dale and Doug Anderson’s legacy lies not only in the remarkable works of art they have collected but also in their unwavering advocacy for the importance of glass as a fine art form. Their efforts have helped cement glassmaking as an integral part of contemporary art, inspiring future generations of artists, collectors, and enthusiasts alike.
Sources:
Oral history interview with Dale and Doug Anderson, Archives of American Art
Auction Results Hank Murta Adams
