Glass Pumpkin Patch Returns
LISLE, IL (August 6, 2012) – Over 3,000 hand-blown glass pumpkins will sparkle under the autumn sun in “The Glass Pumpkin Patch” at The Morton Arboretum, October 17-21. Returning for its second year, “The Glass Pumpkin Exhibit” kicks off the week with a three-day art display, October 17 – 19, where visitors take time to appreciate the beautiful artwork of the pumpkins. “The Glass Pumpkin Patch Market” opens at 1 p.m. on Friday, October 19, and continues until Sunday, October 21, allowing visitors to purchase their favorite pumpkins to take home. Live glass blowing demonstrations entertain visitors daily during the patch.
“’The Glass Pumpkin Patch’ was a favorite new event last fall at the Arboretum,” said Jacqueline Fucilla, Store Manager for The Morton Arboretum. “Visitors were dazzled with gorgeous glass pumpkins, entertained by the live demonstrations and enjoyed meeting the artists who create such enchanting pieces of art.”
Part artist exhibition and part shoppers’ delight, “The Glass Pumpkin Patch” charms visitors of all ages. On Wednesday, October 17, Thursday, October 18 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday, October 19 from 10 a.m. to 1p.m. are strictly for show. Visitors can come see the artists’ work, speak with the artists and mentally store away favorites. On Friday, October 19 at 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., the patch turns into a shop, allowing visitors to purchase until Sunday, October 21 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pumpkins range from $35 to $300 per item. Prices are based on artist’s experience level, techniques used, color, size and style of the pumpkin.
The idea for the pumpkins came from veteran glass-blowing artist, Shannon Jane Morgan. Her 20 years of glass-blowing experience has led to this amazing pumpkin patch at the Arboretum. Always willing to share her craft and nurture young talent, Morgan has invited select local artist from the Chicago area to participate in “The Glass Pumpkin Patch.” Live demonstrations allow visitors to watch the molten glass twist and turn into a sparkling art piece, learning how their favorite pieces were created.
If you are looking to take up glass blowing, the “Glass Pumpkin Workshops” allow you to make your own glass pumpkin paper weight to take home. From 8 a.m. to noon on Monday, October 15 to Friday October 19 visitors can spend the morning working with molten glass to create their own work of art under the instruction of one of the glass pumpkin artists. This class if for ages 16 and older. Costs $89 ($75 for Arboretum members). Register at mortonarb.org/education or call 630-719-2468.
This event is part of the “Fall Color Festival at The Morton Arboretum” running from the beginning of September through the end of October. Additional “Fall Color Festival” events include the Fall Color 5K, Scarecrow Trail, and the Fall Color Fest Fare. For more information please www.mortonarb.org.
About The Morton Arboretum
The Morton Arboretum is an internationally recognized outdoor tree museum on 1,700 acres. Plant collections, scientific research, and education programs support the mission to plant and conserve trees and other plants for a greener, healthier, and more beautiful world. Throughout natural landscapes are specialty gardens, 16 miles of trails, and nine miles of roads. Other offerings include tree-focused events, activities, and services for adults, children, professionals, and communities. The Arboretum welcomes 800,000 visitors annually and serves 34,000 member households. Located 25 miles west of Chicago in Lisle, Illinois, the Arboretum is open daily 7 a.m. until sunset. More information is available at www.mortonarb.org or 630-968-0074.
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Media contact: Mary Beth Sammons | This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it | 630-725-2103