2017 ASHS Annual Conference

The costs of the floral inputs tend to limit floral design classes, especially when considering the large pieces created by florist shops and emulated in college courses. Different styles and fashions are available and the traditional chrysanthemum, carnation, rose, and baby’s breath arrangements feature masses of flowers that limit appreciation of the beauty of individual flowers. Although not suitable for all purposes, the simplistic designs of Ikebana have many settings in which they are appropriate. Fewer flowers are used so that each flower in the creation stands out but is part of a harmonic balance. The bold tropicals (bird of paradise, gingers, heliconia, anthurium, and others) are unique in their colors and structures such that one, two, or even three can be used to create interesting compositions. Soft tropicals, such as orchids, Globba, Gloriosa, plumeria, tuberose, and others find their ways into wedding work and small designs. In addition, fruits, vines and seed pods can be used. While the tradition of Japanese flower arranging has definite rules and different styles, modern interpretations from other Asian cultures can be used to create innovative designs for contemporary spaces. Arrangements become sculptures that are balanced between the flowers, the form, and the setting. While similar concepts can be applied to familiar temperate flowers, it is the tropical lifestyle that these designs draw the observer into. The poster illustrates a number of designs from Ikebana exhibitions and other displays.