Emerge/Evolve 2016: Rising Talents in Kiln-Glass showcases an international host of emerging artists whose cutting edge work in kiln-glass (or kiln-formed glass) offers a different perspective on the medium. The Bullseye Glass Company started the Emerge competition twelve years ago as a commitment to emerging artists working in kiln-formed glass. Bullseye's Emerge/Evolve 2016 featured 42 finalists—representing 16 countries—alongside new work from 3 former Emerge finalists showcasing the evolution of their talent. The Bellevue Arts Museum exhibition will feature award winners and select finalists from the Emerge 2016 competition alongside the Evolve artists. BAM will host an enriched edition of the exhibition, including additional works from the thirteen selected artists.

Bullseye Glass Company is a small factory in Portland, Oregon. Founded in 1974 by three recent art school graduates, the organization promotes glass art around the world through its initiatives, which include developing new methods of glass fabrication, hand-fabricating colored glass for artists and architects, facilitating research and education in the field, and hosting collaborative artist residencies.

The exhibition is accompanied by a full-color catalog featuring artist statements and biographies, interviews with the Emerge 2016 jurors, and an introduction by Executive Director of the Bullseye Gallery Lani McGregor.