A new art exhibit at the Chicago Botanic Garden that was inspired by the pandemic aims to get people out to enjoy fleeting beauty.
Shimmering Summer features dozens of inflated balls, made out of a reflective, iridescent material that shines among the plants.
It runs from June 6-September 20 and is the first time the installation by Australian-based artists Atelier Sisu is set in a botanic garden in the U.S.
The sculptures hang from the ceiling at the Visitor Center, stand among the plants, float in the water and surround guests in Festival Field.
Jodi Zambolo, associate vice president of visitor events and programs, says they are scattered like breadcrumbs for people to follow.
The globes resemble soap bubbles and range from the size of large beach balls to 24 feet tall.
Zambolo says guests are invited to touch the art and interact with it, as it shows a rainbow-colored version of the surroundings.
Nancy Harty
The artists were inspired during COVID-19 to create the work called Evanescent, which celebrates ephemeral beauty.
The garden will have music and performances by jugglers, hula-hoopers, bubble blowers on the weekends, as well as bubble-themed food and drink.
