Chihuly in the Botanic Garden Attracts Over One Million Visitors

The internationally acclaimed exhibition Chihuly in the Botanic Garden has etched a landmark in South Australia’s cultural and tourism calendar by drawing a record 1.4 million visits during its seven-month season at the Adelaide Botanic Garden. Showcasing the monumental works of world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly, this free daytime exhibition has set a new global benchmark, surpassing attendance figures recorded at prestigious venues such as Kew Gardens in London and Gardens by the Bay in Singapore for similar exhibitions.

Delivered through a creative partnership supported by the South Australian Tourism Commission (SATC) and the Major Events and Attraction Committee, the event exemplifies how large-scale public art installations can generate significant tourism and economic benefits while creating a legacy of cultural enrichment for future generations.

A One-of-a-Kind Event Exclusive to Adelaide

Held between late 2023 and April 29, 2024, Chihuly in the Botanic Garden was unique to Adelaide and marked Dale Chihuly’s first large-scale botanical exhibition in the Southern Hemisphere. The artist, famed for pushing the boundaries of glass as an art form, curated an extensive outdoor collection nestled among the garden’s foliage, offering free public access during daylight hours.

According to South Australia’s Department for Environment and Water, which manages the Adelaide Botanic Garden, the exhibition drew a diverse demographic with 27% of attendees from interstate and 9% from overseas, highlighting its role as a major tourism driver. The Botanic Garden is part of the broader Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium of South Australia, which supports science-based conservation, environmental education, and public engagement.

Economic Impact and Tourism Boost

Early economic modelling, in collaboration with the South Australian Tourism Commission, indicates that out-of-state visitors who travelled specifically for the exhibition contributed an estimated $30 million to the local economy. This includes spending on accommodation, hospitality, transport, and retail, supporting Adelaide’s small business sector.

With an additional 16% of visitors from regional South Australia and 48% from Greater Adelaide, the exhibition drew broad community participation, encouraging longer stays and repeat visits. These statistics affirm the state government’s tourism strategy, outlined in the South Australian Visitor Economy Sector Plan 2030, which prioritizes major events as catalysts for regional development, employment, and visitation.

Chihuly Nights and Ticketed Programs Expand Reach

The success of the flagship exhibition was further amplified by ticketed programs that included Chihuly Nights, which welcomed 143,200 ticket holders, and In Full Colour: Dale Chihuly at the Bicentennial Conservatory, which attracted over 56,800 daytime visitors.

Together, these events generated more than 201,000 ticket sales and offered a multifaceted cultural experience that included:

• A live music series
• Science talks on glass art and environmental design
• School holiday programs
• Gin masterclasses
• Audio-described tours for inclusive access

Educational engagement was a core focus, with 7,500 students participating in Chihuly-themed school excursions and over 12,000 children entering a glass-inspired drawing competition.

Local Partnerships Enhance Legacy and Access

Key to the exhibition’s success was the collaboration with JamFactory, South Australia’s leading craft and design organization. Located in Adelaide’s West End, JamFactory hosted three complementary exhibitions featuring South Australian glass artists, attracting 24,000 visitors. Their retail outlet within the Garden sold exclusive Chihuly merchandise and locally crafted glassware, showcasing the region’s artistic talent.

JamFactory is supported by the Government of South Australia through Arts South Australia, aligning with objectives in the Arts and Culture Plan South Australia 2019–2024, which promotes excellence, access, and cultural tourism through creative partnerships.

Permanent Cultural Legacy for Future Generations

In a move that ensures long-term cultural benefit, two of Chihuly’s artworks created specifically for Adelaide have been permanently acquired by the Adelaide Botanic Garden:

1. Jet and Crimson Fiori – Inspired by South Australia’s floral emblem, the Sturt’s Desert Pea, and funded by a collective of 40 South Australian philanthropists and businesses.
2. Glacier and Ice Lapis Chandelier – Located in the Palm House and acquired through a significant donation by Dr Pamela Wall AO.

These permanent installations contribute to Adelaide’s growing public art collection and exemplify how philanthropy and public funding can converge to secure lasting cultural assets.

Voices of Recognition and Artistic Connection

Speaking about the record attendance, Dale Chihuly expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to share his work in such a significant public space:

“I’ve always been passionate about having as many people see my work as possible. It is rare for audiences to enjoy free access to a space as beautiful as Adelaide Botanic Garden. It’s an honor to know that 1.4 million people experienced this exhibition,” Chihuly said.

He also noted the creative inspiration drawn from Australia’s natural environment:

“I was shown images of your state floral emblem, and I loved its bold color and wild shape. It inspired me to create something new. It’s a joy to know this piece will remain in the Garden.”

Government Endorsement and Community Impact

Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison, emphasized the exhibition’s success as both an economic and cultural milestone for South Australia:

“To attract 1.4 million visits is a testament to the power of creative partnerships and the enduring appeal of our Botanic Garden. This exhibition not only enriched our events calendar but delivered substantial benefits for the visitor economy.”

“Thanks to our community and generous philanthropists, two spectacular Chihuly works will remain in Adelaide as a legacy for future generations. It’s a shining example of how investing in cultural tourism brings long-lasting benefits.”

Judy Potter, Presiding Member of the Board of the Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium, praised the commitment of volunteers and staff:

“Over 250 volunteers contributed 10,000 hours to support this extraordinary exhibition. Many visitors experienced the Botanic Garden for the first time, and we are thrilled to welcome them back again.”

Conclusion: A Landmark in South Australian Cultural Tourism

Chihuly in the Botanic Garden has not only captivated global audiences but also reaffirmed Adelaide’s position as a leader in cultural tourism and public art. By combining world-class creative experiences with free and inclusive access, the exhibition delivered significant economic returns, educational value, and a legacy that will enrich the city for years to come.

Through strategic investment and collaboration with international artists, local organizations, and philanthropic supporters, South Australia continues to demonstrate that art and nature together can foster vibrant communities and sustainable tourism.