February 12, 2016

Art in Bloom at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts
April 28-May 1

Art in Bloom (and spring) seem far of in the future but florists have already been planning and making their art selections.

One recent January evening 150 plus florists and flower enthusiasts gathered at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts to select their artwork for the 2016 Art in Bloom.

Art in Bloom, now in it's 33rd year, is an annual event that exhibits imaginative floral interpretations of selected works of art from the MIA's permanent collection. This year's event runs from April 28-May 1 with the museum and floral art open to the public. There are several free events including Flowers after Hours on Thursday evening and a special family event on Saturday. Ticketed events include a gala, lectures and boxed luncheons. More information and all events available at new.artsmia.org/art-in-bloom-2016

I attended the art selection evening in January and am happy to report I was able to select my first choice artwork (below).

Untitled
Yayoi Kusama
located in Gallery 369 MIA

Someone told me that getting your favorite artwork can be a bit competitive, so I decided to arrive at the selection meeting early. Arriving 90 minutes before the doors opened, I was 39th in line! Once we were let into the conference room for selection I sat next to a man who told me he arrived a little after 10am - 8 hours early - and he was number 8! Despite my number in the 30's I was well ahead of the majority of florists and walked away with my first choice.

Now the planning begins! I have some fun ideas and can't wait to put my piece together. I hope that you will put Art in Bloom on your calendar. It is a tremendously fun event and I would love to see all of you visit me and my piece.

In addition to my own piece I am also collaborating with the Design Group at Koehler and Dramm Wholesale Florist. We will put together the piece which will greet visitors outside at the main entrance of the museum on Third Avenue South. It's going to be interactive, so bring your camera and your smile.

More information on both pieces as the date approaches!

A few of my favorites from previous events.

Saint Severin
Gallery 371

Your Dog
Gallery 369

Starburst
Atrium