Desert glass

In Phoenix in late January, we went to the Desert Botanical Garden where they exhibited 30 colorful sculptures of glass artist Dale Chihuly.

The three large chartreuse cacti near the entrance are part of the garden's permanent collection.

A blue sun explodes over the prickly pear.

Red Reeds is one of my favorites pieces. The glass reeds mimic the long narrow shape of the cactus beyond.

Similar reeds in other colors -- purple, yellow, black, orange -- are on display in other areas of the garden.  Here, purple reeds are on display near a wild pink and white tower piece, which itself reflects the green yuccas in the foreground.

The orange reeds near large stones reflect the afternoon light.

Weathered wood is a striking contrast to plain white glass.

Clusters of round glass orbs float over the cacti like balloons.

There is not much water in the Desert Botanical Garden, but a small natural pool casts a color reflection of the sculpture Sonoran Boat

The brightest sculpture in the garden is a flaming sun.

The brown, green and blues desert plants are the perfect background for Dale Chihuly's glass work.