Some friends of mine recently visited the Phipps Conservatory in Pittsburgh, which is currently showcasing some spectacular works by renowned glass sculptor Hans Godo Fräbel, who is originally from Germany. More than 185 of Fräbel’s sculptures have been incorporated into the gardens and rooms at Phipps. These include hand-created pieces in the form of whimsical clowns, flower goblets, humanistic vines, reptiles, geometric shapes and the famous family of “Longfellows,” alien-like forms. The exhibit, Life in the Gardens. Fräbel Glass at Phipps, transforms the conservatory into a world of botanical splendor, intertwined with Fräbel’s unique glass craftsmanship.So when my friends said they were going and, oh, would I like for them to take pictures, I said absolutely. I thought I would share some of them with you here, so a special thanks to Kim and Brian for taking these awesome shots.

In addition to the “Longfellows,” the exhibition also includes Fräbel’s “Cavorting Clowns” frolicking on an 8-foot tall spiral fountain, as well the “Large Cube with Imploding Glass Spheres,” an 8-foot by 8-foot structure with an illuminated center, featured outside the Tropical Forest Conservatory.

If you happen to find yourself in the Pittsburgh area, Life in the Gardens. Fräbel Glass at Phipps runs through January 20, 2010.

CLICK HERE for more info on the conservatory.