Preview: Dale Chihuly Reception at Fairmont Battery Wharf

We’re pumped to check out the latest exhibit from world-renowned glass blower Dale Chihuly, Through the Looking Glass, when it debuts April 10 at the MFA (as seen in our April issue). Chihuly, known for his color-saturated, brain-frazzling sculptures and art from blown glass, studied the craft in Venice years ago while attending RISD.

Chihuly has been creating breathtaking work since the ’70s, and permanent collections reside in 26 states. Sadly, Massachusetts isn’t one of them — which is all the more reason to check it out, and to attend his only public appearance in Boston for the exhibit next Tuesday, April 5. Chihuly and his wife, Leslie, will attend a reception and book signing at the Fairmont Battery Wharf Hotel in support of the Melanoma Foundation of New England.

Art lovers take note: Chihuly doesn’t do a lot of public appearances, and space is limited. For a $500 donation, VIP guests can attend a private champagne reception from 6 to 6:30 p.m., followed by the general reception, which is ticketed at $100 per person. “The Chihulys are delighted to help our cause,” says Deb Girard, executive director of the Melanoma Foundation of New England. “We are touched by their interest and generosity.”

$100 – $500, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Fairmont Battery Wharf Hotel, 3 Battery Wharf, Boston, (800) 557-6352, mfne.org.