The New York Botanical Garden’s colorful orchid show returns for 19th year
All photos courtesy of the New York Botanical Garden
After it was cut short due to the pandemic, the New York Botanical Garden’s famed orchid exhibition is returning for its 19th year. Created by lifestyle icon and floral designer Jeff Leatham, The Orchid Show: Jeff Leatham’s Kaleidoscope transforms the garden’s historic Enid A. Haupt Conservatory into a colorful experience reminiscent of a kaleidoscope. The orchid show is open through May 1.
Guests will be captivated by towers of colorful orchids accompanied by artistic embellishments and kaleidoscopic lights. The exhibition features orchids of every shape imaginable, as well as rare specimens. Leatham worked alongside horticulturists from the NYBG and its Senior Curator of Orchids Marc Hachadourian to curate the collection of orchids, sourced from some of the highest regarded growers in the world.
“I am thrilled to bring Kaleidoscope back to The New York Botanical Garden in 2022—much like when you look into a kaleidoscope, the view is never the same,” Leatham said.
“My reinvention of Kaleidoscope will be totally different installations than two years ago. Every turn will display a new vision, while maintaining the thematic element of every gallery focusing on a different color experience. With this design, visitors will appreciate the beauty of orchids and see NYBG’s Conservatory in exciting new ways.”
Leatham is known worldwide for his work with flowers. Some of the most notable among his clientele include Dolly Parton, Tina Turner, Cher, Oprah Winfrey, and the Dalai Lama.
During the exhibition’s 18th season, the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory was undergoing renovations which prevented the show from being presented in its usual format and began with its biggest, most extravagant piece. Now that the conservatory has reopened, the show will utilize the layout of the space and save the best for last.
On certain Fridays and Saturdays in March and April, guests ages 21 and over can experience “Orchid Evenings,” a special presentation of the exhibition that offers music, food, and drink available for purchase. Orchid Evenings will take place on March 26, April 2, 9, 16, 22, and 23, from 7 to 10 p.m.
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All images courtesy of the New York Botanical Garden
