Time is running out to see the extraordinary displays inspired by Pittsburgh native and Tony, Grammy and Emmy winner Billy Porter at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. The Summer Flower show “Flowers Meet Fashion: Inspired by Billy Porter” wraps up Sunday, June 25, at the Oakland landmark.

Visitors will encounter stunning horticultural and high fashion scenes brought to life with help from six professional fashion designers and costumers and students from Carnegie Mellon University and Pittsburgh CAPA, Porter’s alma maters. There’s even a red carpet and snapping cameras.

Advance ticket reservations are strongly recommended. Prices are $21.95 for adults, $13.95 for children 2-18 and $19.95 for seniors (62+) and students over 18. Tickets are free for Phipps members. Information: www.phipps.conservatory.org or 412-622-6914.

This “Hort Couture” features a skirt of hydrangea. (Karen Carlin/Pittsburgh Union Progress photos)
A “Kinky Boots”-inspired display pays homage to the Broadway musical. Porter starred as Lola, a role that won him a Tony, an Outer Critics Circle Award and a Grammy.
A design inspired by the scarlet flycatcher and featuring a salal leaf dress with pampas grass trim and dried grapevine garlands stands on a carpet of red geraniums.
The show includes a roomful of creations by visual arts and music students in grades 7-12 at Pittsburgh CAPA, which Porter attended.
“Salad Dressing” is an aquaponics dress designed and built at Phipps under Porter’s direction for the hat shape and orientation. Check out the fish living in the torso.
Karen Carlin
Website

Karen is a copy editor at the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, but she's currently on strike. Email her at kcarlin@unionprogress.com.

Karen Carlin

Karen is a copy editor at the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, but she's currently on strike. Email her at kcarlin@unionprogress.com.