FLORAL ENTHUSIASM STILL BURNING

I entered a flower arrangement in an autumn flower show. ‘Songs from the First World War’ was the theme and Keep The Home Fires Burning was the song for the novice section to which I belong.

My entry (pictured) did not get a prize, but did get a special mention. I lost points because the width of the base was too wide for a horizontal design. (Judging is so strict – the judge carries around a measuring tape!) However, the judge was impressed with my burning logs and overall design. You can just see the logs sticking out around the base. They consisted of rolled up dried leaves of Magnolia grandiflora, which I dabbed with some gold and red paint.

In a moment of weakness I recently joined the Whanganui Floral Art Group. The only male! The last time I was part of a floral art group was 50 years ago, when I was a teenager.

I am amazed to find that floral art clubs are very much alive and well in New Zealand. Many clubs have dwindling membership or have died out. Not floral clubs. There is the publication of quarterly mags filled with magnificent photos, an annual diary, and local and regional meetings.

At our monthly meeting there is a competition. I am in the novice section and I have to get seven firsts before I can graduate to the intermediate class!

Michael Unverricht, Whanganui