Human Flower Project and Babylon Floral at Denver Botanic Gardens!

Last Thursday evening, The Human Flower Project‘s Julie Ardery spoke at the Denver Botanic Gardens. The presentation, titled “White Roses for the Bride, Red Begonias for the Dictator,” was about how flowers transmit meaning and identity all over the world. The talk included several examples of local floral and plant traditions, as well as examples from across the globe.

Following Ardrey’s presentation, Arthur and Babylon Floral put on a floral fashion show, showcasing five amazing living fashions and leaving spectators awestruck.

Ryan in Floral Punk

Arthur gave a brief description of the theme for each piece and took questions from the audience.

Garden Geisha Jerrica

Questions ranged from the technical, about the structure, the physical process of building the pieces, and how the flowers were selected (tropicals tend to hold up better), to the more philosophical questions concerning inspiration and the transitory nature of floral art.

Post-Apocalyptic Jasmin

Arthur was quick to give credit to his entire team: Tina McKeever, owner of Vain Salon, created and styled the hair pieces the flowers were attached to, Sally Walker of Alchemy Mineral Blends did the fantastic make-up artistry, Beth Sanders of Beth Photography took the photos, and Sarah Heid of Babylon Floral kept everything running on schedule.

Carly in Fairy Goth

After the discussion, the audience was invited to mingle with the models, to see the artistry up close, and to take their own photos. Audience members were also able to examine Ryan’s hairpiece, as it was the only one not firmly attached to its model’s head. Arthur also mingled with the crowd, answering still more questions and discussing the art that is his passion.

Aztec Goddess Alicia

The evening was a reminder that humans and flowers don’t just share a bond, but a symbiotic relationship, where each enhances the other through life and through beauty. For more about the event from another perspective, please read the Human Flower Project’s article on the evening.

We at Babylon Floral are especially proud of this collaboration, and we hope to be involved in many more such endeavors.