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Gordon Huether Studio: Where Art Comes to Life

Explore the captivating world of renowned artist Gordon Huether at his Napa studio, where large-scale installations and fine art come to life in a renovated hay barn, showcasing creativity and storytelling.

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Gordon Huether Studio in Napa is more than just an art gallery; it's a vibrant hub where large-scale public art installations and fine art pieces are conceived and crafted. Founded by German-American artist Gordon Huether, the studio showcases a diverse collection of his works, from striking sculptures to intricate glass designs, reflecting his passion for storytelling through art. Visitors can explore the gallery, witness the artistic process in the fabrication warehouse, and gain insight into Huether's unique approach, which often incorporates repurposed materials and explores themes connecting humanity and nature. Open weekdays, the studio offers a glimpse into the world of a renowned artist whose creations grace airports, hospitals, and public spaces worldwide. The studio itself is housed in a renovated hay barn, adding to its rustic charm and creative atmosphere, making it a worthwhile stop for art enthusiasts visiting Napa Valley. Don't miss the opportunity to see mockups of art you can find around the city.

A brief summary to Gordon Huether Studio

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday to witness the artists at work in the fabrication warehouse and gain insight into the creative process.
  • Check the Hay Barn Gallery's schedule for rotating exhibitions featuring Gordon Huether's fine art and works by guest artists.
  • Look for smaller-scale replicas of some of Huether's larger pieces, and ones that never got made, in the back hallway.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of other Huether installations in Napa, such as 'The Basket' near the Archer Hotel or the pieces at CIA Copia.
  • Consider visiting during the morning hours for optimal natural light in the gallery and studio spaces.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown Napa, head north on Soscol Avenue. Turn right onto Trancas Street, which becomes Highway 121 (Monticello Road). Continue for approximately 1.5 miles. Gordon Huether Studio will be on the right. There is a small parking lot available at the studio.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From downtown Napa, a taxi or ride-share service to Gordon Huether Studio will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $15-$25 for the ride.

  • Public Transport

    While there isn't a direct bus route to Gordon Huether Studio, you can take a Vine Transit bus towards the intersection of Trancas Street and Monticello Road, and then walk approximately 10-15 minutes to the studio. Check the Vine Transit website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ride fare is $1.75.

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Discover more about Gordon Huether Studio

Gordon Huether Studio, nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, is a captivating destination for art lovers and those seeking a unique cultural experience. This isn't just a gallery; it's a dynamic working studio where the magic of large-scale public art and intimate fine art pieces comes to life. Founded in 1987 by Gordon Huether, a German-American artist with a global vision, the studio has become a landmark in the Napa art scene. Housed in a renovated 15,000-square-foot hay barn, the studio itself is a work of art. Originally built in the 1980s by the Bishop Family, the structure was transformed in 2008 into a state-of-the-art facility that includes a gallery, design studio, fabrication warehouse, and administrative offices. The Hay Barn Gallery features a rotating exhibition of Huether's fine art, as well as works by selected guest artists, providing a diverse and engaging artistic experience. Gordon Huether's journey as an artist began in Rochester, New York, where he was born to German immigrant parents. His dual citizenship allowed him to travel extensively between Germany and the U.S., fostering a multicultural perspective that profoundly influences his art. He honed his skills in stained glass techniques at the Pilchuck Glass School in Washington and further developed his contemporary style through a collaboration with German stained glass artist Johannes Schreiter. Huether's art is characterized by its large scale, site-specificity, and integration with architecture and landscape. He specializes in creating public and privately commissioned artworks that are unique to their location, connecting to historical, geographical, social, economic, and ethical characteristics. His work often incorporates repurposed materials, reflecting his commitment to sustainability and his ability to find beauty in the unexpected. Visitors to the studio can explore the gallery and witness the artistic process firsthand in the fabrication warehouse. Here, a team of skilled artisans brings Huether's visions to life, using a variety of materials, including glass, steel, resins, and composite materials. The studio's open-door policy allows guests to glimpse the creative energy and collaborative spirit that define Gordon Huether Studio. Huether's work can be found in airports, hospitals, universities, and public spaces around the world. Notable examples include the 9/11 memorial in Downtown Napa, the "River of Light & Mountain Range" installation at the John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek, and large-scale art installations at the Salt Lake City International Airport. His ability to create art that resonates with its surroundings and connects with people on an emotional level has earned him numerous awards and accolades. One of the most compelling aspects of Huether's work is his focus on storytelling. Each piece, whether a fine art creation or a large-scale installation, tells a different story, and the materials used are carefully chosen to enhance that narrative. Dichroic glass, with its ability to display multiple colors depending on the lighting, is a recurring element in his work, adding depth and complexity to his artistic expression. Visiting Gordon Huether Studio offers a unique opportunity to engage with art in a meaningful way. It's a chance to witness the creative process, learn about the artist's vision, and discover the stories behind his captivating works. Whether you're an art aficionado or simply curious about the world of contemporary art, a visit to Gordon Huether Studio is sure to inspire and delight. The studio is open to the public on weekdays, providing a welcoming space for visitors to explore and discover the world of Gordon Huether. The location on Monticello Road, a scenic route through Napa Valley, adds to the overall experience, making it a memorable stop on any Napa itinerary. Beyond the art itself, Gordon Huether Studio is a testament to the power of creativity and collaboration. It's a place where ideas are nurtured, visions are realized, and art is used to connect people and inspire the human spirit. A visit to this remarkable studio is an opportunity to witness the transformative power of art and to gain a deeper appreciation for the creative process. Consider checking out some of Huether's other pieces around Napa, including "The Basket" near the Archer Hotel, a tribute to Robert Mondavi and Margrit Biever Mondavi at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) at Copia, and integrated art installations at Blue Note Napa. Whether you're drawn to the grand scale of his public art or the intimate beauty of his fine art, Gordon Huether's work is sure to leave a lasting impression. A visit to his studio is an invitation to explore the intersection of art, architecture, and human connection, and to discover the stories that shape our world.

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