They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, and the botanical imitations of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens flatter both the artist’s works and the flowers and plants selected to represent them.
Van Gogh in Bloom is the dazzling summer show at Phipps this year, featuring three-dimensional renderings of the famous post-impressionist painter’s masterpieces, including “Sunflowers” and “Wheat Field with Cypresses.”
“Starry Night Over the Rhône” doesn’t disappoint, as the exhibit’s dark pond reflects nearby greenery and shimmers with lights in the evening. Visit “The Night Café”, displayed in one of the conservatory’s many greenhouse rooms, and picture yourself playing a game of pool in a French café.
Replicas of Van Gogh’s paintings and placards with information also dot the scenery, so that you can compare Phipps’ botanical reimagination of Van Gogh’s works directly to the gorgeous colors, brushwork, and quotes that inspired the exhibition.
Phipps has managed to transform each painting into an immersive experience that can be enjoyed during the day with full natural light (9:30AM-5:00PM), or on Friday nights for an altogether different effect (open until 10:00PM).
Admission to the Conservatory, which includes other rooms and attractions in addition to the Van Gogh exhibition, is $17.95 for adults, $16.95 for seniors and students, and $11.95 for children ages 2-18. Members and children under age 2 may enter for free. Tickets can be purchased in advance online. This show will only be available for a limited time, so make sure to visit Van Gogh in Bloom this summer!
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.
