Strange Bright Blooms: A History of Cut Flowers

The book analyzes the transplanted nature of cut flowers, encompassing paintings, murals, fashion, and public art, and explores our relationship with them.

Format: Hardback
Length: 324 pages
Publication date: 14 June 2021
Publisher: Reaktion Books

Virginia Woolf's novel, Mrs. Dalloway, famously begins with the iconic line, "Mrs. Dalloway said she would buy the flowers herself." This statement encapsulates the essence of self-sufficiency and independence, emphasizing the importance of taking charge of one's own affairs. It suggests that individuals should not surrender the most precious moments of their day to others, but rather embrace the opportunity to indulge in their own pursuits and desires.

Flowers, in all their vibrant and diverse forms, hold a special place in our lives. They grace us during moments of celebration, such as weddings, anniversaries, and birthdays, adding a touch of elegance and beauty to the festivities. Similarly, they provide solace during times of despair, offering a sense of comfort and healing. As Kakuzo Okakura aptly observes, we engage with flowers in various ways, from consuming them to singing, dancing, and flirting with them. Their natural beauty serves as a source of inspiration and joy, brightening our homes, parties, and rituals with incomparable notes of natural beauty.

However, it is important to note that the nature of these displays is often tamed and conscribed. The cut flowers we encounter in our everyday lives have undergone a process of transplantation, as they have been carefully cultivated and arranged to meet our aesthetic preferences. This book delves into the intricate relationship we have with cut flowers, exploring the careful curation of their very existence. It is a picaresque, unpredictable ramble through the world of flowers, encompassing a wide range of artistic expressions, including paintings, murals, fashion, and public art.

From the intricate paintings that capture the delicate beauty of flowers to the stunning murals that adorn walls and ceilings, flowers have found their way into various forms of artistic expression. Fashion designers have incorporated floral motifs into their creations, creating stunning dresses, hats, and accessories that exude a sense of femininity and grace. In public art, flowers have been used as a powerful symbol of protest and activism, with artists creating installations that challenge societal norms and promote social change.

Moreover, this book explores the realm of glass flowers, pressed flowers, flowery church hats, weaponized flowers, deconstructed flowers, and flower power. It sheds light on the diverse ways in which flowers have been celebrated, revered, and even weaponized throughout history. Glass flowers, for instance, offer a unique perspective on the beauty of flowers, as they are created through a process of glassblowing and craftsmanship. Pressed flowers, on the other hand, preserve the natural beauty of flowers in a timeless manner, allowing them to be cherished for generations.

In conclusion, Virginia Woolf's novel, Mrs. Dalloway, serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of self-sufficiency and independence. Flowers, in all their forms, grace our lives and add a touch of beauty and joy to our celebrations and rituals. This book analyzes the transplanted nature of cut flowers, exploring the careful curation of their existence and the diverse artistic expressions that they inspire. It is a captivating journey through the world of flowers, encompassing a wide range of artistic mediums and historical contexts. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of flowers, this book offers a wealth of insights and inspiration.

Weight: 1326g
Dimension: 198 x 259 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789144017