The resounding success of the colourful glass art exhibition Chihuly in the Botanic Garden has been captured in new research showing how it boosted South Australia’s visitor economy.
The exclusive display of large-scale installations and sculptures from Seattle-based artist Dale Chihuly opened at Adelaide Botanic Garden last September and concluded in late April, welcoming 1.4 million attendees across its seven months.
Independent research shows the world-class exhibition added $55.7 million in economic benefit to the South Australian economy, generating more than 195,000 visitor nights and the equivalent of 303 full-time jobs.
The free-entry exhibition was joined by two ticketed elements; In Full Colour: Dale Chihuly within the lush Bicentennial Conservatory – and the flagship evening experience Chihuly Nights – which together recorded more than 200,000 visitors. Further survey data reveals strong support for the broader tourism and hospitality sectors, with many visitors booking hotels and dining at local restaurants during their stays.
Chihuly in the Botanic Garden saw Adelaide become the most successful host of a Chihuly botanic garden exhibition, surpassing previous attendance figures at Kew Gardens in London and Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay.
Generous local philanthropists have supported the purchase of the two works that were especially created for the Adelaide exhibition, including the Glacier Ice and Lapis Chandelier which was generously purchased by Dr Pamela Wall OAM, and the Jet and Crimson Fiori made possible through the generosity of 40 South Australian philanthropists and businesses.
These will now remain in the Adelaide Botanic Garden for future visitors to enjoy.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison:
"We know how popular this bright, joyful exhibition proved during its time here – and now we can also see the powerful impact it had on South Australia’s visitor economy."
"An impressive 1.4 million people enjoyed Chihuly in the Botanic Garden, enjoying not only its sculptures and installations but a wide variety of local bars, restaurants, hotels and retailers."
"The success of this exhibition underscores our commitment to securing events that are new to Australia and exclusive to Adelaide. It’s among highlights from another blockbuster year of major events and festivals spanning sport, arts, culture, music and more with SA continuing to celebrate record tourism numbers."
Quotes attributable to Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium Presiding Member and Chair Judy Potter:
"We were proud to partner with the South Australian Government and Dale Chihuly to deliver an event that was not only visually spectacular but also created lasting economic and social benefits for our state."
"We’re especially delighted that our Chihuly story will continue through the acquisition of two works inspired by the iconic Palm House and South Australia’s floral emblem, the Sturt’s Desert Pea."
"We are deeply grateful for these generous donations, which will leave an enduring and awe-inspiring legacy in the garden."
Quotes attributable to Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium Director Michael Harvey:
"The exhibition was a remarkable celebration of art and nature."
"We know that Adelaide Botanic Garden is a special place loved by millions - so it was genuinely heart-warming to see so many people revelling in the natural setting as they admired the awe-inspiring artwork."
"We hope that more and more people have now discovered the Garden and will keep coming back to spend time together and deepen their appreciation of the botanical world."
Chihuly in the Botanic Garden Economic Impact Report
You can view the full Economic Impact report as PDF HERE
