How do I get a Dale Chihuly glass masterpiece in my garden for under $175,000? That is the question I asked myself after visiting the renowned American glass artist’s museum and garden in Seattle, Washington. And yes, one of Mr. Chihuly’s glass chandeliers sold for $175,000.
With a burst of creativity and a little upcycling, of course!
Upcycling, as defined by UpcycleThat.com, is “The act of taking something no longer in use and giving it a second life and new function. In doing so, the finished product often becomes more practical, valuable and beautiful than what it previously was.”
I began by creating one sculpture for my garden by combining multicolored glass and ceramics. Next, I designed a simple birdbath and a whimsical plant stand. Then things got out of hand upon discovering so many interesting items for sale at local thrift stores. A few sculptures turned into several! For inspiration and ideas check out my website at gardensbycolleen.com for all my unique designs.
To make a unique garden treasure of your own, start with the search. I gathered colorful glass and ceramic items from around my house that I don’t use anymore. Then I ventured out to explore a few thrift stores. They were a real gold mine for interesting items! Be on the lookout for unusual plates, cups, saucers, glassware, bowls, platters, vases and my favorite item—teapots!
Keep in mind that it may be easiest to build around a theme or a specific item. Envision a large, shallow platter as a birdbath; a vibrant colored vase or urn as a plant stand; or a large, heavy bowl as the perfect base for an outdoor sculpture. Search for coordinating colors, different shapes and interesting textures.
Next, I do a dry fit (no glue) to see how the pieces marry together as you stack them. I usually take a photo of the combination, then review it to make sure I love the look. I must admit, my first stack is never my final piece. I like to rearrange the pieces until I find a combination that really works together.
After researching garden sculptures online, I found several methods for affixing the glass and ceramic items together. I use E6000, a clear permanent bonding adhesive that can be purchased at Hobby Lobby, Walmart, or Michaels Craft stores. It is waterproof, so rain and garden sprinklers are not a concern.
I jotted down some tips from my own experiences that you might find helpful when creating your sculpture.
used a punch bowl, vase, and platter.
– When thrifting, check carefully for chips, cracks, or scratches on glass and ceramics. Most can be repaired with a little paint or hidden within the stacking process. Be sure to take some boxes and newspaper or bubble wrap along with you to protect your treasures.
– Enjoy the hunt. So many wonderful pieces can be found at Goodwill, AMVETS, Salvation Army and local thrift stores. Try Craig’s List or garage sales. Oh, the stories a ceramic bowl or glass vase might tell if it had a voice. Make the unspoken history a part of your garden.
– If your garden space is limited, then consider decorating a porch, entryway, or patio. I also use a few glass designs indoors as plant stands and table centerpieces. Just be creative and change things up!
– Take your gardening “bestie” along for the hunt. It is a fun activity on a cold, rainy day when gardening isn’t an option. You can both add some unique sculptural creations to your gardens.
– Use a heavy bowl, platter, or plate for the base. This will prevent it from toppling over in your garden.
– Take your time. Rearrange things. Flip pieces over to get the perfect fit and a pleasing shape. Let your ideas stew overnight then take a second look at your design. Are there too many colors, unrelated items or not enough interest? Try again.
– Use a torpedo level when dry-fitting all the pieces together and be sure they fit snuggly. Remember to level each piece as you glue them together.
– Give the glue plenty of time to dry. I glue my sculptures and birdbaths in sections. Then let the entire piece bond completely overnight.
Oh, Mr. Chihuly, you will never know just how much your captivating glass masterpieces have influenced my garden!
Colleen O’Neill Nice is a horticulturalist who is passionate about plant propagation and enjoys nurturing her garden in Clarence, New York.
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