NORFOLK, Va. — Norfolk Botanical Garden (NBG) is excited to announce the upcoming addition of one of the most significant permanent collections of Dale Chihuly’s work on the east coast. This extraordinary collection will be seamlessly integrated into the rare and endangered plants housed within the Perry Conservatory, a centerpiece of The Garden of Tomorrow project — opening late 2025.
Chihuly, the internationally renowned American contemporary artist, is celebrated for transforming spaces with his innovative use of color, light, transparency and form. Known for his large-scale installations around the world, Chihuly revolutionized the studio glass movement. His work is the latest addition to the Garden’s ongoing transformation.
A standout piece in the new collection is the Chiffon and Sangria Azalea Chandelier (2024). Designed specifically for NBG, this stunning artwork pays tribute to the 220 African American Works Progress Administration workers who originally planted the Garden’s azaleas. The vibrant colors of the Chandelier honor the heritage of these early gardeners and their lasting impact.
The inclusion of Chihuly’s artwork at Norfolk Botanical Garden celebrates not only the artist’s groundbreaking contributions to the studio glass movement but also the Garden’s commitment to preserving both natural and cultural histories for future generations. The collection offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the harmonious blend of art, nature and architecture.
Installation of this remarkable collection is expected to begin in late August, marking an exciting new chapter for the Garden.
About Norfolk Botanical Garden: Norfolk Botanical Garden represents an oasis of more than 65 themed gardens encompassing 175 beautiful acres. From stunning plant collections to WOW – World of Wonders: A Children’s Adventure Garden, this diverse natural beauty can be explored by tram, boat, or walking tours. The Garden is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, recognized as a Virginia Historic Landmark, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated a Virginia Green attraction. It is managed by Norfolk Botanical Garden, Inc. and supported by the City of Norfolk. The mission of Norfolk Botanical Garden is to immerse visitors in a world of beauty, lead through environmental action and inspire through education and connection to nature. Admission is $21.00 for adults, $19.00 for seniors and military, $16.00 for ages 3-12, 2 and under are free. Explore our reduced admission programs: Norfolk Power Up and Museums for All. For more information, visit www.norfolkbotanicalgarden.org
About the Artist: Dale Chihuly is an American artist who transforms spaces with experiments in color, light, transparency, and form. He is known for his exhibitions and large-scale architectural installations around the world and for revolutionizing the studio glass movement. Chihuly works with a variety of media including glass, paint, charcoal, neon, ice, and Polyvitro, and his work is included in more than 200 museum collections worldwide, including Metropolitan Museum of Art, Smithsonian American Art Museum and Corning Museum of Glass. Major exhibitions include Chihuly Over Venice (1995—96); Chihuly in the Light of Jerusalem (1999); de Young Museum in San Francisco (2008); Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (2011); Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond (2012); Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (2013); Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto (2016); Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas (2017); Groninger Museum, Groningen, the Netherlands (2018); Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, London (2019); Gardens by the Bay, Singapore (2021); and Adelaide Botanic Garden, Australia. Chihuly Garden and Glass, a major long-term exhibition, opened in Seattle in 2012.