Chihuly Glass Sculptures at DBG

Photos by Lisa E White

The pairing of art and gardens takes advantage of the natural landscapes, giving a new twist to the look of the Desert Botanical Gardens.  No art combines as well with the natural cactus sculptures as that of Tacoma glass artist Dale Chihuly.  Five years ago, the exhibit broke attendance records.  This year's exhibit runs from November 10 to May 18, 2014 daily from 8 a.m to 8 p.m.  An installation team of 12 artists arrived on Oct. 24th with six 53-foot trucks filled with glass to install over the next 12 days, forming 21 sculptures.  If possible, see the ticketed exhibit in the early morning, noon, and evening as the glass "dialogues" with the plants through the changing light.  Special evening programs are available combining music with extended hours to take advantage of the warm desert nights--8 p.m.-midnight on March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 and April 5, 12 and 19.  Also, consider taking special photography classes offered from January 28-February 26th.  Check the website:  Chihuly at DBG