GLASS PUMPKIN PATCH SPROUTS UP

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Eds: Live glass blowing demonstrations at Chicago Hot Glass are available for press.
October 12 – 16, 2011

GLASS PUMPKIN PATCH SPROUTS UP AT THE MORTON ARBORETUM

Patch Brings Kaleidoscope of Color, Live Demonstrations from Artists

LISLE, IL (July 21, 2011) – A glittery world of glass awaits visitors October 12 – 16 as “The Glass Pumpkin Patch” soaks the Arboretum’s West Lawn in a stunning jewel-toned showcase of color.  The lawn, speckled with over 2,000 hand-blown pumpkins, is a sight to behold.

“This harvest of iridescent beauties comes in varying shapes, sizes and colors.  While some tend to take on the traditional autumnal hues, others have a slightly funkier flavor,” says Marilyn Baysek, Special Events Manager at the Morton Arboretum.  “Anything from orange pumpkins with twisted green vines to the more fantastical sort with turquoise and magenta color palates are anticipated.”

Meander through the candy colored glass to take in works of art from all over the country.  Visit with the artists during the exhibit to learn more about their creations and what goes into glass-blowing first hand.  These unconventional pumpkins are on exhibit Wednesday through Sunday.  Feel free to fall in love with these opulent orbs- they’re yours to purchase Friday from 1 – 5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Then, stand back to watch the artists pull molten glass from the ovens as they demonstrate the incredible precision and technique involved in fashioning the glass pumpkins live on the lawn.  Visitors can watch as these skilled glass blowers twist and turn the glowing glass into radiant pieces of art Wednesday through Friday on the hour, 1 – 4 p.m.

Bring the family along and experience how these pumpkins play with nature’s color.  The “Glass Pumpkin Patch” is unlike any garden you have seen before (and the only one in the Chicagoland area)!  These showstoppers are the perfect addition to your Halloween or Thanksgiving display.  Complete your festive décor with a spin through The Arboretum Store featuring beautiful handcrafted works of art, furniture, and nature-inspired gifts.

“The Glass Pumpkin Patch” is a part of “AutumnFest at The Morton Arboretum,” running from the beginning of September through the end of October.  Upcoming “AutumnFest” events include the Fall Color 5K, Scarecrow Trail, and AutumnFest Fare. For more information visit www.mortonarb.org/autumnfest

The pumpkins were created by artist Shannon Jane Morgan and select local artists from Chicago Hot Glass. Morgan, known best for a painter’s approach to glass color, is highly regarded for her unique craftsmanship.   Chicago Hot Glass, a dynamic glassblowing studio founded in 2001, provides resources and a creative environment for everyone from the curious observer to the advanced professional. For more information visit www.chicagohotglass.com.

The Morton Arboretum is a world-renowned leader in tree science and education, working to save and plant trees. The 1,700-acre outdoor museum features magnificent collections of 4,128 kinds of trees, shrubs, and other plants from around the world. The Arboretum's beautiful natural landscapes, gardens, research and education programs, and year-round family activities support its mission – the planting and conservation of trees and other plants for a greener, healthier, and more beautiful world. Conveniently located at I-88 and Rte. 53 in Lisle, Illinois, the Arboretum is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year, from 7 a.m. Central Time until sunset. The Children's Garden is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., March through October, and 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., November through February. Visit Press Room at www.mortonarb.org, call to learn more.

Media Contact Ι Allison Phelps Ι 630.719.5768 Ι 773.724.1385 Ι This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

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