Flower and Art: Color, Line, Balance and Texture

Laurel Winzler

I’ve heard many times that arranging flowers is an “art”.   A beautiful arrangement can set off the intrinsic beauty of each blossom, and make the viewer see that flower in a new and unique way.  

by Laurel Winzler
Floral and Event Designer

Not unlike a painting, every floral arrangement incorporates the elements of color, line, balance and texture, and each shows the aesthetic perspective of the designer. 

There is No “Right” Way to Design an Arrangement

Everyone has a unique idea of how to work with flowers, and there is no right vs. wrong way to put an arrangement together.  Some designers work with vividly contrasting colors, while others prefer to blend and balance tones.  Strong linear elements and structure can predominate, where another designer will create pieces that are more rounded and naturalistic.  Full, soft blooms are the preference of some designers, while others like to add boldly contrasting textures. 

In each case, the designer’s “eye” will influence the final arrangement and make a personal artistic statement.  In fact, two designers can begin with the same flowers and end up creating two totally different arrangements, each beautiful in its own unique way.

Flowers in Art

Not surprisingly, artists throughout history have portrayed floral arrangements or incorporated them into their works.  As background elements, they add detail and richness to Renaissance portraits and Flemish tapestries. 

Their forms are adapted into elaborate designs in illuminated Medieval manuscripts and Celtic jewelry.  

Most strikingly, the painters of 17th Century Holland portray flowers in “still life” works of incredible richness and detail – many featuring that exotic and highly-prized new flower, the tulip !

Arrangements as Art

A unique opportunity to truly see “flowers as art” takes place each spring at the de Young Museum in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park.  Called Bouquets to Art, for the past 26 years this exhibit has invited the most talented floral designers in Northern California into the museum, asking each of them to select a piece of art and to then create a floral arrangement based on that artwork.

Over the course of a week, visitors to the de Young  have a chance to see the floral creations displayed beside the art which inspired them.  Each designer prepares a list of the materials used and an explanation of the way the arrangement interprets the artwork.  

Lectures and demonstrations throughout the week allow renowned designers to share their expertise and inspiration.  This exhibit takes flower arranging to a new and inspired level and is a feast for the soul as well as the eye!

Bouquets to Art runs from April 20 – 24, 2010.  See BouquetstoArt.org  for more information.  I’m a participant and will be in Gallery 24, Site B, interpreting “The Gold Scab” by Whistler!  Please stop by!

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Tags: Beauty, highlight, Home, interior design, My Time

Category: Home & Garden