The Impact Of Floral Shows On The Environment

Horticulturist throughout the world are experimenting with hybrids and introducing new species to the flower world - A universal interest in nature by the floral designers has created an awareness and demand for a better and greener Environment.

Floral Shows evoke a profusion of flowers and foliage arranged artistically. It is also a spectacle with a great deal of variety of Competitions, Exhibitions and Demonstrations- promoting art & design and a spirit of fair & friendly competition.

Competitive show work has over the years become an integral part of the work of WAFA. The challenge of imaginative schedules can act as a spur to creativity and can inspire those who accept this challenge to far greater artistic achievements than they would normally attain.

In a Competition each participant has to produce an arrangement according to set rules. The competition is divided into a number of classes, each with a different theme. The participants are free to choose the class which they wish to enter.

An International jury has the difficult task of awarding prizes to the three best exhibits in each class. A very strict criterion is used to judge the arrangements in the competition. The "Best of the Show" is selected amongst the first prizes of the different classes.

In an Exhibition on the other hand, there are no regulation and the participants are free to make an arrangement although sometimes a general theme is given to guide their choice. Therefore the freedom of creation in an exhibition often results in considerable fantasy. These compositions are not judged.

The Floral Demonstration consists in the creation of one or more floral designs on a stage in front of an audience. The demonstrator gives a running commentary on the floral design as it develops. Staging, music and lights contribute to a spectacular performance.

World Shows have had an impact on Horticulture the world over - not only are the people looking towards a greener world, a better environment but also new species of flowers and plants which feature at these shows giving the participants exposure to the newer trends in Floral Art.