Arc en Ciel

Step outside the chaos of everyday life and into a moment of calm, creativity, and connection with Arc en Ciel—where nature, art, and music unite. 

Experience a mesmerizing fusion of art, nature, and sound with Arc en Ciel by Arts South Australia Biennial Artist, Celia Craig. Inspired by her synesthesia—the blending of senses—four diverse musical partners create a captivating soundscape that harmonizes with the stunning, vibrant sculptures of Dale Chihuly. Set against the breathtaking rainforest backdrop of the Bicentennial Conservatory, Arc en Ciel features four distinct musical voices weaving together in gradual, improvised harmony. Over the course of an hour, this immersive, art-inspired experience invites you into a serene world of deep listening, where music, color, and nature unite in an unforgettable journey of sensory discovery.

When was the last time you truly took a break? No screens, no distractions—just space to think, breathe, and soak in nature around you? Science shows that time spent immersed in nature and art isn’t just relaxing—it boosts clarity, reduces stress, and sparks creativity.

Join oboist Celia Craig and guitarist Caspar Hawksley, the duo behind the hit neurodiversity schools show Colours of Home, for Arc en Ciel. In Celia’s initial Biennial Artist series at the Botanic Gardens, they’ll be joined by cello virtuoso Thomas Marlin and flugelhorn player Harrison Smith to create a unique and relaxing musical experience.

Let the sounds evolve, blending slowly and seamlessly into an hour of deep listening that washes over you in harmony with the stunning, vibrant sculptures of Dale Chihuly.

The Bicentennial Conservatory will open for ticket holders at 6.30pm, one hour before the experience begins. Guests are invited to enjoy a drink on arrival (included in ticket price) and to explore the “In Full Colour” exhibition of Dale Chihuly’s life and work inside the conservatory, before Arc en Ciel commences at 7.30pm. Seating will be provided but not allocated. Guests are welcome to sit and enjoy, or move quietly around the conservatory during the experience.

‘Classical music is for everyone, not just those in a concert hall … (the) ambition to increase access and awareness for what music can bring to everyone is an exciting venture...’ Mark Wigglesworth, Chief Conductor, Adelaide Symphony Orchestra.

Please note, as this event take place outside of opening hours, the rest of Adelaide Botanic Garden and the other Chihuly artworks will not be accessible during this time, and entry and exit will be through the Hackney Gate only. Last entry will be at 7.25pm.

Date: Wednesday 5 and 19 February 2025

Time: 7:30pm - 8:30pm

Cost: $65 per person (including drink upon arrival)

Location: Bicentennial Conservatory, Adelaide Botanic Garden (entry via Hackney Gate, Hackney Road)