Flowers by Gwyneth | Sydney Florist & Ikebana Artist
Photo Credit: Louis Gan Photography
FLOWERS BY GWYNETH – FLORIST & IKEBANA ARTIST
A specialised event and wedding florist located in Sydney Australia, trained in both western floristry and Japanese Ikebana.
While the training for traditional western floral design takes time, the study of Japanese flower arrangement, Ikebana, is another long term commitment in itself. Gwyneth has armed herself with both sides of the floral art world to provide her customers with the best of both worlds.
Read our interview below with Gwyneth to learn more about her journey with Ikebana, her advice for students and how she has turned her passion into a successful business.
1. How were you introduced to Ikebana?
I was introduced to ikebana when I was studying the concept of negative space in floral design at TAFE (an Australian higher learning institution for vocational education and training).
I was captivated by the minimalist yet impactful nature of Ikebana, where each element holds significance and the spaces in between are as crucial as the materials themselves. This realisation ignited a deep appreciation for the art form and inspired me to further explore the world of ikebana.
Many years later, I came across a Sogetsu Ikebana leaflet at The Collectors Plant Fair (a popular annual event for rare and interesting plants) in Sydney, and was particularly drawn to the Sogetsu Ikebana philosophy where “anyone can enjoy Sogetsu Ikebana anytime, anywhere, using any material.” Thus began my journey into the world of creative expression through ikebana.
2. Why do you love Ikebana?
For me the joy of ikebana extends well beyond the final result. It’s about experiencing a sense of calmness and a deep connection with nature while crafting each arrangement.
3. What is the best advice you have received through your ikebana studies?
I’ve learned that in ikebana, perfection needn’t be the goal. It’s about embracing the process and embarking on a beautiful journey of learning and experimenting. Learn from both successful creations and perceived “mistakes.” Allow each arrangement to be a stepping stone in your artistic journey, helping you grow and evolve as an ikebana practitioner.
4. How did you manage to turn your passion into a business?
Turning my passion for flowers into a business has been an exciting journey of growth and exploration. It all began with my formal education in western floristry, where I spent two years learning floral design theory and honing technical skills.
To deepen my expertise, I was fortunate to work alongside a talented retail florist, gaining hands-on experience and refining my craft.
Motivated by my desire to do something more creative, I made the decision to venture out on my own and establish my own studio-based floral design business. Building an online presence became a pivotal focus for me, as I recognized the power of reaching a wider audience through the digital realm. To navigate this new territory, I delved into the world of search engine optimization (SEO), learning the ins and outs of optimizing my website to attract the right audience and elevate my online visibility.
I’m grateful to have the unwavering support of my husband, who has been instrumental in allowing me to fully dedicate myself to turning my passion into a thriving business.
It is a true privilege to turn my passion into a business and have the opportunity to bring beauty and joy into people’s lives through ikebana and the medium of flowers.
5. Are there any artists who you look up to or inspire you most?
As a floral designer, I draw inspiration from a variety of artists. Three artists who have particularly inspired me are Louise Worner, Ilse Beunen, and Hayao Miyazaki.
Louise Worner‘s work embodies a unique blend of elegance and whimsy. The way she seamlessly integrates unexpected elements into her arrangements is awe-inspiring. She serves as a constant source of inspiration, reminding me to embrace creativity and explore new ways of using materials – both natural and man-made.
Ilse Beunen‘s work is particularly inspiring when it comes to creating contemporary or Japanese-inspired decorations for shop windows, restaurants, or events. Her unique ability to blend modern aesthetics with traditional influences is truly remarkable, and serves as a personal reminder that it’s possible to create captivating displays that embrace the principles of Japanese ikebana in a contemporary setting.
Hayao Miyazaki, although not a floral artist per se, has had a profound impact on my creative journey. His animated films are a masterclass in storytelling, imagination, and attention to detail.
What sets Miyazaki apart is his keen sense of observation. He has an unparalleled ability to capture the essence of the natural world, whether it’s the gentle sway of grass in the wind or the softness and movement of clouds against a clear blue sky. Inspired by Miyazaki’s influence, I strive to infuse my ikebana designs with a similar sense of observation, and create arrangements that capture the essence and beauty of nature, just as Miyazaki does in his animated worlds.
6. Where do you source your materials & containers?
When it comes to sourcing materials and containers for ikebana, I like to explore a wide range of options.
For fresh floral materials, I draw from various sources. I frequent local flower markets, connecting directly with growers to handpick the finest blooms. This allows me to support local suppliers while ensuring the freshness and vibrancy of the flowers. I also gather materials from my own garden, incorporating a personal touch into my arrangements.
When it comes to containers, I enjoy exploring online ikebana stores or the works of ceramicists to find distinctive pieces. I also find great pleasure in repurposing everyday household items into vessels for my arrangements. Places like Kmart and IKEA offer a treasure trove of readily accessible items that beautifully complement the minimalist ikebana style.
7. How would you describe your style of Ikebana?
When it comes to describing my style of ikebana, I believe in embracing the spirit of exploration and allowing my creativity to flow freely, without limiting myself to a definitive style.
That being said, I find great fascination particularly in exploring the interplay of colour, form, and texture within my arrangements. Colour holds a special place in my ikebana designs. I believe that the careful selection and arrangement of colours can evoke different emotions and set the tone for the arrangement. Whether it’s a vibrant and bold colour palette or a soft and serene combination, I enjoy experimenting with different colour schemes to create arrangements that are visually captivating and emotionally impactful. In addition to colour, I find immense pleasure in using plant materials and leaves to create fascinating forms and textures within my ikebana arrangements.
In essence, my ikebana style is one that embraces artistic exploration, celebrates individuality, and fosters a deep appreciation for the ever-changing beauty of nature. It is an ongoing journey of discovery, where I continuously seek inspiration and refine my skills to create arrangements that are both captivating and meaningful.
8. Do you have a favourite material or season?
I enjoy working with greenery such as philodendron and flax leaves where I can manipulate its natural form to create interest or a focal point in my arrangements. When it comes to a favourite season, I love spring when I have access to a myriad of floral and plant varieties.
9. What is the advice you would give to someone who is studying or teaching Ikebana?
Cultivate the ability to observe the intricate details, shapes, and textures of plant materials. Pay attention to the way light interacts with the arrangement and the environment. The art of ikebana is as much about perceiving the subtle nuances as it is about arranging the flowers themselves.
10. Do you have any good Ikebana secrets / tips to share?
One of my favourite tips is to encourage individuals to experiment with different angles when positioning their ikebana arrangement. Sometimes, by just gently rotating the arrangement to make a subtle adjustment, you might discover the most visually pleasing and harmonious angle of the arrangement.
11. What is ahead in your flower future?
I look forward to sharing my love for flowers and floral design through teaching and mentoring, while still enriching my understanding and practice of ikebana. I aspire to inspire budding floral enthusiasts, helping them cultivate their own creativity and develop a deep appreciation for the artistry of flowers. Through workshops, classes, and online resources, I hope to empower others to embark on their own floral journeys and discover the transformative power of working with nature’s blooms.
In the broader scope, I look forward to collaborating with fellow artists and creatives from various disciplines to bring floral installations and immersive experiences to life. Whether it be collaborations with event designers, photographers, or even architects, I am excited to merge the worlds of floral design and other artistic realms to create captivating and unforgettable environments.
12. For flower lovers – where would you recommend they visit in Sydney in a 24 hour visit?
The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney: Located in the heart of the city, you’ll encounter a stunning array of flowers, plants, and trees from around the world at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. And don’t forget to visit The Calyx, which is nestled within the Royal Botanic Garden. Check their website for upcoming events and closure updates.
Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens: If you happen to be visiting the Blue Mountains area, the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden (Mount Tomah) is a paradise for plant enthusiasts. Explore the various themed gardens and meandering trails, which showcase an extensive collection of native and exotic flowers.
Photo Credit: Todd Hunter McGaw
If you’re searching for someone who knows the planning, operations and what it takes to organise flowers for an event or wedding, along with the elegance of the Japanese design, get in touch with Gwyneth.
Business Details
- Website: www.flowersbygwyneth.com.au
- Instagram: @flowersbygwyneth
- Services: Wedding and event flowers, ikebana workshops for beginners
- Contact: Any inquiries, please email [email protected].