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Adelaide scores first-ever major outdoor exhibition of Dale Chihuly’s works in Australia

‘Garden Cycle’ will feature 15 epic sculptures by one of the world’s greatest contemporary glass artists

Melissa Woodley
Written by
Melissa Woodley
Travel & News Editor, Time Out Australia
Glass dandelion sculpture in garden
Photograph: Supplied | Chihuly Studio | 'Sapphire Star' by Dale Chihuly, 2010
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Renowned American artist Dale Chihuly's large-scale glass sculptures have graced gardens in the USA, London and Singapore. Now, Adelaide has scored exclusive rights to Chihuly’s first major Australian outdoor exhibition, Garden Cycle, which will spring to life in Adelaide Botanic Garden this September. 

As you wander through the lush landscapes, you’ll encounter a captivating collection of 15 large-scale, hand-blown glass structures, featuring both iconic works and brand-new pieces crafted especially for Adelaide. Daytime visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the two-kilometre outdoor garden trail for free, searching for art entwined within trees, suspended above flower beds and rising from waterways. 

“I have sought an opportunity to return to Adelaide since 2000 when I first presented work at JamFactory,” said Chihuly. “Adelaide Botanic Garden offers so many rich colours and textures – the ideal environment for the placement of my work, and I look forward to sharing this new exhibition with the South Australian community.”

Flower sculptures in mossy garden
Photograph: Nathaniel Wilson | 'Ethereal Spring Persians' by Dale Chihuly, 2022

These vibrant sculptures will take on new hues and personalities throughout the day and across the seasons, giving you plenty of reason to visit time and time again. At sunset, you can experience Chihuly Nights – dedicated evening sessions that also grant access to a special exhibition, In Full Colour: Dale Chihuly, set within the tropical rainforest setting of the Bicentennial Conservatory. Here, visitors can glimpse into what goes on behind the doors of Chihuly’s hot shop and see how the towering sculptures made their way to Adelaide Botanic Garden. Savour the balmy summer evenings with bites, bevvies and live music in the Schomburgk Pavilion.

Glass floral sculpture in green house
Photograph: Supplied | Chihuly's Garden Cycle

Chihuly’s Garden Cycle will be on display at Adelaide Botanic Garden from September 27, 2024 to April 29, 2025. You can find out more here.

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