Period designs have very specific definitions. As I complete a design for competition I will add it to the list here with the definition, design example and judging feedback.
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Definition: Greek 600-146BC
A classical style, simple and symmetrical in form. Roses, violets, lillies, cornflower, iris saffron and crocus were used in wreaths, garlands and swags but few were placed in vases. Ivy, laurel, oak, olive and grape leaves and certain aromatic herbs such as mint, thyme, rosemary and marjoram were commonly used.
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Class Title: Your Favourite Design Period
Staging: bench, space allowed 70cm, judged from front
I enjoy the research before a competition and this one certainly gave me plenty to think about. The Class title “Your Favourite Period Design” intrigued me by how far back I would be able to find actual flower arranging styles that reflected both the times and the uses of horticultural material.
In Greek times, flowers were not used particularly as ornaments but there was extensive use of swags made from aromatic herbs. My herb garden was prolific at the time of the competition so here is the result.
This swag is actually laced through some plastic mesh and tied at the top with some of the more flexible herbs (lemon grass, chives) and a few roses but you could also do this as a wreath as these were common to Greek households. The arrangement doesn’t need to be in water as these materials can safely remain fresh for the duration of the Show – and in fact could be left like this for drying purposes and were probably used this way in Greek households.
The staging (backdrop, container etc) of period pieces is important as it should leave no doubt in the judges mind which period the arrangement is depicting.
Judging feedback: An appropriate representation of the Greek period of design – very good to see something of the early period design styles. This design could have been improved with more use of the space allowed – remember to try and use two thirds of the space allowed with your design.
