This is another design I staged at the same venue where I was demonstrating some years ago.
As I said in a previous post, I enjoy being a part of these gatherings. I do understand that some feel intimidated at the thought of the “demonstrator” also competing but please (if this is you) remember that we are all still learning and if I don’t compete I can’t share my learning with others through demonstrations and my websites. I assure you I am often not placed ahead of locals at these venues. All I expect is a fair judging of my work against the schedule, as would be the case for any competition.
The title for this class was “Weathered and Rustic”.
I decided to use a piece of weathered wood as the base with some hessian covered floral foam for the lilies as no other plant material needed a water source. The remainder of the plant material is dried – typha, banksia, seed pods; some fresh magnolia leaves have been placed with the underside (brown) facing the front of the design.
My choice of design style for this title was a parallel. I though the plant material lent itself to this design style and would emphasize it better. With a parallel design style, placements should be in groups at varying heights, showcasing straight lines.
This design did not place in the competition. (The locals were astounded – I was not, the judges comments are clear).
Judges comments: A good interpretation of the class title although the “Rustic” is less obvious than the “Weathered”. Whilst the round form of the banksia is repeated with the round hessian container, the relative proportions could be improved. The design has strong vertical lines, a good element, but this is not enhanced by the placement of the seed pods at the front of the design. These should be placed in the same strong vertical lines with only a small grouping needed below the hessian container.
Placement of this design at an angle to the front of the bench may have improved its impact as well as given it some more depth.
