When seeking to do something botanically different indoors, we usually look to new varieties of plants and planters to give us the creative edge. There are other ways though that plants can be introduced into the interior plantscape.
Attending “The Growing Edge” conference in Hobart earlier this year, I listened intently as Chris Beytes, editor of the GrowerTalks magazine, spoke about American trends in the plant world. Not surprisingly, foliage plants and succulents were all the rage in that country. Here in Australia, many growers cannot keep up with demand for these plant varieties. However, Chris also highlighted the growing use of botanical prints in interior decor.
I was reminded of Chris’ trend forecasting recently when setting up my display at Blooming Tasmania’s annual Flower and Garden Festival in Launceston, Tasmania. During a quieter moment, I managed to sneak away from our stall to look for horticultural inspiration, coming across a local botanical artist promoting some absolutely gorgeous designs.
Deborah Wace specialises in the original artwork on fabric, including clothing and furnishings. Deborah’s artistic mission is to “Drape, hang, wear, wrap and share works of art that are inspired by nature”. Deborah describes herself as a printmaker, amateur botanist, history lover, ecological activist, teacher and musician. Quite the (new) Renaissance woman!
Deborah collects for and maintains an extensive pressed plant herbarium of local Tasmanian species and a digitised plant print collection. Deborah’s etchings and dry print plates depict threatened native orchids, wild button grass plant communities and the rainforests of Tasmania. She prints onto paper, silks, chiffon and linen. Deborah also produces relocatable and adhesive frieze works. Her work is truly beautiful both to see and feel.
If you or your client are in need of some new plant inspiration indoors, consider adding a botanical print or artwork to your fit-out concept, e.g. cushion covers, murals or hangings. Check out Deborah’s work or that of local artists in your area. You might be surprised at what you find!
Gabrielle Stannus / Inwardout Studio
IPA Board Member