Phipps Conservatory creates a colorful oasis shielded from the wintry weather with its Orchid and Tropical Bonsai Show, on display from Jan. 17 through March 1, 2015. The orchid and bonsai sit in stark formal contrast to each other, yet both noble plants have captivated the attention of collectors for centuries.
Hundreds of orchids brighten up the glasshouse, including selections from the reknowned Barbara Tisherman Slipper Orchid collection, co-curated by the Orchid Society of Western Pennsylvania. Orchids, which exist in over 25,000 species around the world, are prized for their delicate composition and variance in color, shape and size.
Joining the orchid show are Phipps’ tropical bonsai, on display in their permanent collection. Quite different from the elegant shape of the orchid, bonsai are equally unusual, taking many different forms.
Accompanying the show are works from silk artist Jamie Kirkell, on display in the Welcome Center Gallery. If you’d like to try your hand at silk art, Kirkell is teaching a Two-Day Painting on Silk Workshop at the Garden Center on March 7 and 8.
Jekko had a chance to stop in and capture this unique exhibit, but the photographs don’t do justice to the exquisitely fragrant escape that Phipps’ staff has created.
The exhibit is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and until 10 p.m. on Fridays. Check here for more information.
