Updated: June 2025
As a California-based company with a long heritage in the Los Angeles region, we at Bayer Cemetery Brokers are always interested in how our local cemeteries connect with the community, offering more than just a final resting place.
Forest Lawn Memorial Park Glendale, a place we frequently work with, is a perfect example. They’re not just about beautiful memorials; they’re about celebrating life and art. Forest Lawn Museum recently presented a remarkable display: “Narcissus Quagliata: Archetypes and Visions in Light and Glass.” This collection resonated deeply with our team.
One of our team members, Emma, recently visited the display and was deeply impressed.
A Celebration of Light and Glass: The Narcissus Quagliata Collection
“Narcissus Quagliata: Archetypes and Visions in Light and Glass” collection, recently featured at the Forest Lawn Museum, offered a truly special experience.
Narcissus Quagliata is a leading transformational figure in contemporary art, renowned for his large-scale public installations and diverse artistic expression. He is considered one of the world’s most influential pioneers in art glass over the past 50 years. He has pushed the boundaries of the medium and developed innovative techniques, making his work akin to “painting with glass” and moving it far beyond traditional church window settings into the realm of fine art.
Exploring Quagliata’s Visionary Art
The collection showcased the breadth of Quagliata’s career, from his vibrant “Mediterranean Treasures” to the thought-provoking “Locked Out” series, which confronts the issue of homelessness with compassion and artistry. It’s fascinating to see how he masters light and color to tell stories and evoke emotions.
“The ‘Locked Out’ series really resonated with me,” Emma commented. “As a fellow Southern Californian, it’s a powerful reminder of the human stories behind the headlines, and how art can bring empathy and understanding.”
A Cosmic Masterpiece: The 50-Foot Mural
One of the highlights is a massive 50 ft. x 12 ft. leaded and blown glass mural depicting the cosmos. This piece, originally created for the Pacific Bell Building in Oakland, is a breathtaking explosion of color and light. It’s a testament to Quagliata’s vision and scale.
A Dialogue Across Centuries: Historical Glass at Forest Lawn
And that’s not all! Forest Lawn has some amazing historical pieces on display, too.
The display included Medieval and Renaissance stained glass, featuring a window designed by the legendary German painter, printmaker and writer, Albrecht Dürer. It’s a brilliant move to present these older treasures alongside Quagliata’s contemporary art.
“Seeing the historical pieces alongside Quagliata’s modern work really adds to the experience,” Emma observed. “It’s amazing to see how artists across different eras have used glass to express their vision.”
Forest Lawn Glendale: More Than Just a Cemetery
What we find particularly compelling about this collection, and others at Forest Lawn, is how it connects with the broader mission of Forest Lawn. It demonstrates their dedication to public service by providing free access to world-class art.
It’s a reminder that cemeteries can be places of beauty, history, and cultural enrichment.
“This type of art display really showcases how Forest Lawn is so much more than a place of burial,” Emma added. “It’s a place where art, history, and community come together.”
Important note for readers
As a licensed cemetery broker, Bayer Cemetery Brokers specializes in the sale and acquisition of cemetery property. We do not organize, promote, or sell tickets for museum exhibitions, events, or attractions. We encourage you to visit Forest Lawn Museum’s official website for current information on their displays and hours.
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