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Sunday, April 6, 2014

Chihuly in the Desert Exhibit…


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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.



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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.



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“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.



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“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.

7 comments:

Robbie said...

Chihuly's work is amazing!!!! What an opportunity to see them!! Lucky you!!!! Glad you're home safe and sound!

Susan said...

Oh my, what a breathtaking exhibit. Thanks for the photos.

Jean Carlton said...

I was also in Phoenix during this exhibit as well as the one in 2009. The Desert Botanical Garden is lovely, made even more intriguing with Chihuly's art which is on display into May sometime. Don't miss it if you are in the area.

Createology said...

What a lovely addition to an otherwise seemingly bleak desert. We were treated with a Chiluly display in Venice Italy among the canals. It was amazing. What an undertaking it must be to ship and display such fragile glass sculptures that are very pricey. Creative Glass Bliss...

Browndirtcottage said...

WOW WOW….this is just crazy wonderful! What lovely contrast against the desert!

creativelenna said...

I would have loved to have seen this Nancy, you took some wonderful pictures!

1CardCreator said...

This is so beautiful, what a beautiful place to visit! Thanks for leaving another sweet comment for me. ~Diane