Sun Valley at the de Young Museum, San Francisco

Last week the historic de Young Museum in San Francisco hosted the thirtieth anniversary of their "Bouquets To Art" show, where floral designers make stunning arrangements inspired by the de Young's world class art collection. Sun Valley was a major flower sponsor for the event, donating fresh California grown flowers.

Arial design by Waterlily Pond Floral Design studio, Natasha Limits, Daniel Schultz (San Francisco).

Our team member Amy Carrieri was able to head down to the city and rendezvous with her mom to take in the gala opening of the show.

Lily: What were your first impressions of the show?

Amy: It was pretty amazing. Walking into the museum we were surrounded by the people who make the San Francisco art scene so vibrant. There was an excitement in the room, as people were ready to view the creations. This being the thirtieth year of the event, you definitely felt a like you were part of something very special.

Sharla Flock design, Sharla Flock (San Francisco), Richard Mayhew, Rhapsody, 2002.

Lily: So what were your thoughts flower-wise?

Amy: Flowers were everywhere. Coming from the perspective of a grower, it was inspiring to see the artistry the designers were able to achieve with our flowers. It really struck me that an event like this is the ultimate showcase of the talented flower designers, who actually drive our industry.

Judy Cochran Ward (Novato), George Hitchcock, Tulip Culture, 1889.

Lily: What were you favorite art pieces?

Amy: It was really hard to have a favorite. Many designers did very literal translations of the art, others were much more esoteric.

Plumweed Flowers Co., Monique Duncan (San Francisco), Richard Diebenkorn, Nude on Black and White Stripes, 1962.

Lily: Other highlights?

Amy: I met some really inspiring designers. the talent in this room was phenomenal. The work of these American designers is equal to any work I have seen in Holland or other flower hotspots in the world. 

Dariel Alexander; Assistant Mark Alexander (Lafayette) Willard Leroy Metcalf, Winter's Festival, 1913

Dariel Alexander (above, right) has been participating in "Bouquets to Art" for 29 years.

Yukiko's Floral Design Studi, Yukiko Neibert; Assistant Peter Neibert (Kentfield) Chiuri Obata, Mother Earth, 1912

Yukiko Neibert has been participating in "Bouquets to Art" for 12 years.

Lily: What were your mom's impressions?

Amy: She was pretty blown away. Like me she is a flowers lover, so we both were in this amazing zone, kind of like kids in a candy store. I was thrilled to be able to take my mom to this event. We shared a wonderful experience, and this is the sort of thing you feel privileged to be able to share. We will be talking about this event for years to come. Although, it raised the bar higher for Mother's Day. It has always been my tradition to get my mom farm fresh flowers for Mother's Day. Last year I gave her our double French tulips, they were very impressive. However, after the de Young, I may have to talk to a designer and really take it up a notch...and why not?  Seeing the drama and power of these flowers, made me realize that  you don't just "give" flowers...the act is much deeper than that.

Natalie Bowen Designs, Natalie and Seth Brookshire (San Francisco), Claes Oldenburg, Parade of Women, pages 172-173, 1964.

Lily: Any other impressions?

Amy: Yes, everybody should go see one of these events. Many museums around the country have them, but I warn you...after the de Young show, I think I will really want to see flowers at every art show I attend in the future. It really made the art a three dimensional, living visceral experience.

Bonnie Hart; assistant Susan Bernheim (Tiburon) Dale Chihuly, Ultramarine Stemmed Form with Orange, from the Persian Series, 1988.

Lily: Thanks Amy!