A new exhibition, "Judith Schaechter: Super/Natural," is now open at the Museum of Craft and Design (MCD) in San Francisco. This exhibition, running until February 8, 2026, focuses on the universal appeal of natural elements, intricate patterns, and decorative art. It invites visitors to consider how beauty is perceived and how it connects with human experience.
Key Takeaways
- The exhibition features Judith Schaechter's largest work, an 8-foot stained-glass dome.
- The dome integrates biophilic design principles to promote calm and reflection.
- Schaechter developed unique techniques for working with flash glass, including sandblasting and layering.
- The exhibition includes seven other artworks exploring themes of nature and human perception.
Immersive Dome Explores Human Consciousness
Central to the exhibition is Schaechter's most ambitious creation to date, also titled "Super/Natural." This impressive work is an 8-foot-tall, 5.5-foot-diameter stained-glass dome. It was developed during her residency at the Penn Center for Neuroaesthetics.
The dome is designed for a single viewer to enter and experience an immersive environment. It represents a three-tiered cosmos, reflecting Schaechter's research into biophilic design. This design approach studies how natural elements influence human consciousness and well-being.
Fact: Biophilic Design
Biophilic principles are often used in modern architecture. They help create "refresh rooms" in hospitals and office buildings. These spaces aim to reduce stress and foster feelings of serenity and peace by incorporating natural light, materials, and patterns.
The "Super/Natural" dome features 65 vibrant stained-glass panels. These panels are filled with detailed depictions of fantastical insects, diverse flora, various birds, and mythical beasts. By placing the viewer at its core, the dome encourages introspection. It prompts thoughts on how environments affect us neurologically and psychologically.
It also encourages contemplation of our connection to the outer world. This includes how we extend ourselves into our surroundings and interact with nature.
"The 'Super/Natural' dome invites contemplation of inner space — how we experience environments neurologically and psychologically — and outer space — how we extend ourselves into our surroundings," states the Museum of Craft and Design.
Innovating with Traditional Stained Glass
Beyond its immersive quality, Schaechter's work redefines the traditional stained-glass medium. She employs a unique material known as "flash glass." This type of hand-blown glass features a paper-thin layer of vibrant color fused onto a clear base.
Schaechter pioneered her own labor-intensive process to work with this material. Her technique involves multiple stages of sandblasting, etching, and layering colors. This method allows her to achieve rich, nuanced tones and effects that resemble painting. She completes her intricate designs with black enamel and silver stain.
Artistic Process
Traditional stained glass relies on cutting colored glass pieces and joining them with lead. Schaechter's method, however, transforms the surface of the glass itself. This creates a highly detailed and painterly finish, pushing the boundaries of the medium.
This innovative approach highlights the versatility of stained glass. It demonstrates how an ancient art form can be adapted for contemporary artistic expression. Her techniques allow for a depth of color and detail rarely seen in traditional stained-glass work.
Additional Artworks and Themes
In addition to the central dome, the exhibition showcases seven other artworks by Schaechter. These pieces continue to explore similar themes. They delve into natural elements, intricate patterns, and the role of ornament in art.
The artworks also examine the cultural construction of nature. This means they consider how different societies and eras have understood and depicted the natural world. Each piece offers a unique perspective on these concepts.
Exhibition Duration
The "Judith Schaechter: Super/Natural" exhibition will be on display at the San Francisco Museum of Craft and Design for nearly two years, closing on February 8, 2026. This extended run allows many visitors to experience the detailed works.
The entire collection aims to provide a meditative experience. It encourages visitors to reflect on their psychological and aesthetic connections to the natural world. Schaechter's work serves as both a literal and metaphorical lens. Through it, guests can consider how beauty, imagination, and nature intertwine to shape human experience.
According to the museum, the exhibition encourages a deeper understanding of our surroundings. It highlights the importance of art in making these connections visible. The generous support from Anonymous and the Glass Alliance of Northern California helped make this exhibition possible.
Visitor Information
- Location: Museum of Craft and Design (MCD), San Francisco
- Exhibition Title: Judith Schaechter: Super/Natural
- Dates: Currently on view through February 8, 2026
- Purpose: To explore beauty, nature, and human consciousness through stained glass.
- Key Highlight: An 8-foot immersive stained-glass dome.
- Website: For more details and to plan your visit, go to sfmcd.org.
The museum encourages sharing information about the exhibition using native social media tools. This helps spread awareness about the unique artistic display and its themes.