Chihuly in the Desert Exhibit…

We’re back from a trip to Arizona and, a highlight for me, a visit to the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix. They were presenting an exhibition of glass work by Dale Chihuly. Swoon. There were installations placed at many points throughout the desert plants and walking trails. The installation above is titled “Sonoran Boat”. Just look at those colors and shapes. We arrived in the late afternoon so that we could see the glass in natural light, and then again when it was lit after sunset. Inspiring is only one of many words that come to mind in trying to describe this wonderful exhibit.

This work is titled “Neodymicin Reeds” and there were several other similar ones interspersed among the cactus. The changing shape and colors are just compelling to see.





“White Herons” are shown above, and “Red Reeds”, below. The Desert Botanical Garden is located in the Papago Park area of Phoenix and has operated since 1939. When I read up on the history of a place like this, I’m so impressed with the vision of those who developed and grew the gardens over the decades into such a fine facility. This display is on until May 18. You can certainly see from the vegetation in these photos why it’s said that “everything in Arizona will stick or sting you.” Those cacti are pretty lethal looking.














“Erbium Pink Fiori” and “White Tower” are lit in the gathering dusk. It’s nearly impossible to choose a favorite installation, but this was a contender on my favorites list. I’ve always been drawn to glass, and it’s the first display I look for in antique shops- often before the quilts even! So what a treat that our trip conincided with the Chihuly in the Desert display. Happily for me, this synchronicity was in play on a previous visit several years back when there were other works in exhibition. I’ll show you some more photos in my next post. I, for one, cannot get enough of Chihuly glass.