Glass In The Gardens

                    
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Today, we visited Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Pittsburgh, PA where we were able to see the unusual installation of sculptural art glass integrated with variety of plants and natural elements.  The summer flower show is titled  "Glass in the Gardens".  The glass work spread throughout the conservatory was created by artists Dale Chihuly, Daviea Davis (interview), Gary Guydosh, Nikolaj Christensen, Jason Forck, Hans Godo Frabel, and others.  

You generally wouldn't think of using glass to decorate a garden, but if used properly it can enhance any arrangement - turning it into an aesthetic masterpiece.  The artist must take into consideration the location, natural elements, color, size of the piece, arrangement, and what the piece will look like.  As you watch the slideshow of the installation at Phipps, take notice of these considerations.  

         
         Phipps Conservatory - Glass in the Garden from Mike Krenzel on Vimeo.

Assignment

After seeing how glass can help enhance a natural environment, ask yourself how we can create a more inviting atmosphere at our school.  Think about the following considering our school grounds:

• What do you like about our school grounds in regards to aesthetics? What don't you like?
• What are some things you would like to change? Is there anything you would remove? Anything you would add?
• If you were to incorporate glass into our landscaping, how would you do it?  Please consider the following questions in answering: What would it look like?  Would it be easily broken - remember, children may be running/playing in the vicinity.  Would it be easily stolen or vandalized?    
• How much would these changes cost? How could we obtain materials or extra funds?  Could we get donations? Who would you call to inquire?