Raising Our Glass to Stephen Rolfe Powell

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Jan. 2, 2008. Glass artist Stephen Rolfe Powell creating a glass piece in his studio at Centre College.

LORETTO, KY – (July 31, 2019) – An exhibition of some 43 stunning pieces created by internationally renowned glass artist Stephen Rolfe Powell – some never before displayed publicly – will greet visitors throughout the Maker’s Mark Distillery campus in 2019. This special exhibition acts as a celebration of the life and career of one of the genre’s most acclaimed, visionary and influential figures and will run from Aug. 2 to Nov. 30 at the distillery in Loretto.

While Powell’s work is featured in museums and private collections all over the world, he worked and taught in Danville, Ky., at Centre College, just a short drive from Maker’s Mark. Before his untimely passing earlier this year, Powell had been planning a large exhibition at the distillery. During each distinctive phase of his life’s work, Powell retained a few pieces for himself, and many of these incredible works of art from his private collection are being displayed throughout the Maker’s Mark campus.

Powell’s close relationship with Maker’s Mark began several years ago when he created a rare commissioned work which has been on display at the distillery ever since. “I’ve always admired Stephen’s unique vision, his attention to detail and total dedication to his craft,” said Maker’s Mark Chief Distillery Officer Rob Samuels. “Because we share those values with him, Stephen felt the distillery would be a perfect setting for this exhibition, and we’re thrilled to host it.”

In addition to Powell’s own distinctive work, dozens of other glass artists from around the world, some of whom are very well-known, have agreed to donate pieces which will also be on display – uniquely designed and handcrafted bourbon decanters/bottles created specifically to honor Powell. These pieces will be auctioned off to collectors at the close of the exhibition with proceeds going to the Stephen Rolfe Powell Memorial Fund at Centre to help art students continue their educations.

The Stephen Rolfe Powell exhibition at the Maker’s Mark Distillery is included with the regular tour. The tour is $14 for adults 21 and over (which includes a bourbon tasting), $5 for those under $21 and $10 for retired military and veterans. Active military members (with ID) are free.

Tours are offered at the distillery Monday–Thursday from 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m., and Sundays from 11:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

For images or more information contact:
Dan Burgess 

502-815-3227

[email protected]

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