Flower Fever: An Anthophile's Dream

The humble flower has always been a steady source of inspiration for artists irrespective of periods and geography. Still prevalent, the depictions of blossoms, blooms, and other botanical elements can be found in many of the most significant art movements, whether moulded in clay or painted in a still-life. In contemporary times the organic realm of flora has morphed into a more complex avatar than the traditional connotations and decorative motifs.

From exquisite still-lifes to magnificent plants on canvases: flowers do not only beautify the appearance, but also open secret meanings, and convey messages to the attentive viewer. A single flower can represent associations with mortality, materialism, spirituality, reproduction, decay, purity, promiscuity, love, hardship, a tool to add commentary to a range of important contemporary issues — or nothing more than a pile of petals. Take a look at some of these innovative contemporary artists working with flora today and reframe the way you think about everyday flowers.