Experience a final viewing of “Kaleidoscopic Visions: The Architectural Glass Art of David Wilson,” a career retrospective of a celebrated stained-glass artist, before this once-in-a-lifetime exhibit closes at the end of the month. Join the artist for  informal conversations during the “Last Looks” reception at the Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS) from 4–5:30 p.m. on Dec. 19. (Submitted photo)

NORWICH – The Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS) will celebrate a successful exhibit season with a “Last Looks” reception from 4–5:30 p.m. on Dec. 19. Throughout the year, the Community Gallery has been host to “Kaleidoscopic Visions: The Architectural Glass Art of David Wilson,” a career retrospective of a celebrated stained-glass artist whose work emphasizes the importance of visual harmony in the built environment.

Sponsored by The Art Garage of Cooperstown, “Last Looks” is an opportunity to experience a final viewing before this once-in-lifetime exhibit closes at the end of the month. Join the artist for informal conversations about his remarkable creative endeavors while enjoying complimentary refreshments from NBT’s Blue Star Café.

Along with impressive stained-glass windows in expansive frames, “Kaleidoscopic Visions: The Architectural Glass Art of David Wilson” features an extensive collection of models and maquettes. Curated by CCHS Operations Manager Joseph Fryc, the exhibit chronicles the remarkable career of a local artist whose work is highlighted in venues across the Northeast, including Corning Incorporated, Merck & Company, Nations Bank, New York City MTA, UNC-Chapel Hill, LeMoyne College, the Washington Hebrew Congregation in Washington, D.C., and many more.

Born in England, Wilson graduated in 1961 from Middlesbrough College of Art with a national diploma in design. After a year at the Central School of Arts and Crafts in London, he moved to New York City to work for the Rambusch Decorating Company. He provided space planning, interior and sanctuary furnishing design, mural design, and architectural model building. In 1975, he became head of the company’s stained glass studio prior to establishing David Wilson Design in South New Berlin.

“While David’s art can be found in significant buildings outside the region, there are those right here in Chenango County who are unfamiliar with his work,” said Fryc. “In collaboration with the artist, we were given exclusive access to generate content for this unique display. David’s harmonious glass designs have transformed commonplace structures into living art galleries, and it has been an honor to feature him this season.”

First established in 1939, CCHS is the primary organization dedicated to actively and comprehensively preserving the history of Chenango County. The area’s premier heritage museum, the organization celebrates local culture – unique traditions, noteworthy residents, and unusual stories of the region. Regular hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, and admission is a free-will donation left up to each visitor’s discretion.

This year’s CCHS exhibition season was underwritten by the Roger Follett Foundation. CCHS programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

The mission of the Chenango County Historical Society and Museum is to explore the culture of Chenango County through preservation and presentation of local heritage.

- Information from the Chenango County Historical Society