A stunning three-metre-long, glass sculpture, created by one of the world's most celebrated contemporary glass artist, Dale Chihuly, will become a permanent fixture in Adelaide Botanic Garden thanks to a generous philanthropic gift.
Dr Pamela Wall OAM has generously purchased the Glacier Ice and Lapis Chandelier, designed by Chihuly specifically for the Palm House, for it to remain in the garden permanently.
The piece has become a crowd favourite since the ‘Chihuly in the Botanic Garden’ exhibition opened in September and is one of over a dozen grand glass installations that comprise the Chihuly in the Botanic Garden exhibition.
Enabled by major support from the State Government of South Australia, this free general entry event, is exclusive to Adelaide and the first in the Southern Hemisphere, drawing record-breaking crowds.
With the exhibition due to conclude at the end of April 2025, Dr Wall’s gift ensures that this captivating piece will remain as an enduring legacy, free for all visitors to Adelaide to experience beyond the exhibition.
Chihuly’s Chandelier was meticulously designed and created in the artist’s Seattle studio to complement the Palm House’s heritage architecture and vibrant blue tones.
The sculpture currently dazzles visitors both during the day and through Chihuly Nights, a ticketed evening event where the artworks are illuminated, creating a stunning interplay of light and colour each Thursday to Saturday.
Visitors are treated to additional artworks and a deeper dive into Chihuly’s life and the fine art of glass, at a ticketed exhibition in the Bicentennial Conservatory, In Full Colour: Dale Chihuly.
JamFactory, with a shop based in the Museum of Economic Botany for the exhibition, is a proud supporting project partner.
Artist Dale Chihuly said "Australia – and Adelaide – have held a special place in my heart since I visited and presented my work there in the 1990s and again in 2000.
I’m thrilled to remain connected to this special place and these historic gardens through this acquisition."
South Australian philanthropist Dr. Pamela Wall OAM said "As someone who has cherished and supported the arts and nature throughout my life it fills me with immense pleasure to support the acquisition of such an awe-inspiring glass chandelier made specifically by Dale Chihuly for the Palm House in the Adelaide Botanic Garden.
This beautiful piece of art will provide enjoyment for visitors to the Gardens into the future."
Premier of South Australia, Peter Malinauskas MP said "This exhibition has drawn tremendous local, interstate, and international crowds. I have to thank Pamela Wall for her generosity, which will ensure South Australians can enjoy this unique piece of art well into the future."
Chihuly Studio president and CEO Leslie Chihuly said "We are honoured that The Glacier Ice and Lapis Chandelier will have a permanent home in such a historic and beautiful setting.
The Palm House’s unique architecture provided the perfect inspiration for Dale’s creative vision, and we are thrilled to see his work become part of Adelaide Botanic Garden’s story. It’s a joy to know that this piece will continue to delight and inspire visitors for years to come."
Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium Presiding Member and Chair Judy Potter said "We are deeply grateful to Dr Pamela Wall for her generous gift, which reflects the profound connection between art, nature, and our community. The Chihuly in the Botanic Garden exhibition showcases the creative talents of the Chihuly Studio and the Botanics horticultural excellence.
This donation to secure one of the people’s favourites, ensures that the exhibitions impactful legacy will continue to inspire long after the exhibition concludes. This gift is a testament to the power of philanthropy to enhance public spaces and create memorable visitor experiences."
