Paintings in bloom: New Hampshire gallery "borrows" from the Boston Museum of Fine Arts an idea for a show that blends the worlds of floral paintings with floral arrangements

Art Business News, March, 2005 by Debbie Hagan

"It hits people who might not normally go to galleries" says Shea. "Many people are intimidated by galleries." But "a flower show" breaks down barriers.

Of the six shows East Colony hosts annually, Shea thinks that "Petals 2 Paint" is easier, in some regards. Artists do not need to come up with new work. Too, the expenses are relatively minimal: invitations, flyers, postage, reception and advertisements.

In addition, the artists learned a lot. "The arrangements showed us the importance of keeping things simple--less is more," Shea says. Friendships have been forged with the floral designers. Some of the artists have shown their appreciation by attending designers' floral shows.

For reprints of this article, contact Charles Lang at 888-772-8926, ext. 266, or e-mail clang@pfpublish.com.

SOURCES:

* EastColonyFineArt 603-621-7400 www.eastcolony.com