Flowers on the Bay

The American Institute of Floral Design sponsored a symposium in San Francisco earlier this month. Bob and I flew out there to see what some of the most creative minds in the field of floral design were doing and to see what new trends were emerging. While I don’t usually work with live flowers, the artistry we saw there is certainly transferable to my work with permanent botanicals.

A lovely view of San Francisco

This monumental arrangement of Anthurium
like the roses, at left, suggest the
impressive display of fireworks we saw
the night before.

This cascade of roses is  similar in
approach to the Anthurium at right.
they both need a hotel lobby
to accomodate their scale.

Of course, when these professionals get together, they are going to be operating at the peak of their game. We saw amazing displays of talent. Many were so large they would only be appropriate for huge events.  Even with these experienced pros, blossoms were continually being replaced to maintain a fresh appearance. They were showy and festive, but not practical as design elements for the long term. It is the goal of Flower Design to provide the color and compositional beauty of floral arrangements that are cost effective due to their permanence.

Here green Anthurium and kale are supported
on a curled branch. 

Tropical greens, orchids and bamboo
create an Asian ambience that would
dominate just about any space it
occupied.

     

An extremely elegant arrangement
for a formal setting.

A simple non-floral arrangement
of kale and greens surprising in its impact.

Not all arrangements were over the top, size-wise. There were many table-top compositions that were exceedingly clever. Some were quite simple but still expressed a grace and charm that were compatible with the most elegant environment. Others were regal in bearing despite their diminutive size. Flowers are a naturally beautiful element that enhances our environment regardless of the scale; a skillful florist can elevate their natural beauty.

A clever idea based on Calla lilies,
orchids, horsetail, with other decorative
elements that unite the
composition.

The Czech composer, Dvorak, resided in the United States for a brief time in the late 19^th century. One natural wonder he wanted to experience was Niagara Falls. While there, he and his wife got into a discussion on the nature of beauty, specifically—which is more beautiful: the splendor of the Falls or Beethoven’s rendering of nature in his 6^th symphony. They agreed that Beethoven’s work surpassed the natural beauty because nature is unthinking while great art expresses beauty and consciousness. I’m not suggesting that a floral arrangement is on the same par with Beethoven’s music, but they do both exhibit a human contribution that complements nature.

After attending this symposium, I believe I would be available to create live arrangements on a limited basis.