Nature's Creative Edge 2010
Sponsored by the North Central Chapter of AIFD in partnership with Robert Friese AIFD.
"Music, Music, Music -- The Earth Sings in Flowers" is an annual public awareness event held the third weekend in September at the Fruitport, MI woodland estate of Robert Friese AIFD.
The founder and host of the event, Bob had dedicated over five acres of his property for this exhibit that is attended by approximately 1,000 people each year. The proceeds from ticket sales benefit the North Central Regional Chapter's educational programs.
AIFD members and a few juried artists collaborate to express a different theme each year. AIFD designers taking part in 2010 were from Michigan, Indian, Illinois, Ohio, Wisconsin and Missouri. In all, 29 design professionals transformed the forest into a fantasy of florals. The creek design (pictured) was done by Brian Wenmoth AIFD of Akron, Ohio. His title was, of course, Water Music. Each designer donates their time, talent and materials for this public awareness/fundraiser. Additionally, the project received product donations from Smithers Oasis, Vans Floral Products and Nordlie Inc.
Although this event is a North Central project, all AIFD members were welcome to participate. The exhibit opened on the third Friday of September and ran through the following Sunday afternoon. The displays were illuminated with strategically placed spot lights and a multitude of candles as dusk fell in the forest.
Designers who took part started setting up the Tuesday and Wednesday with an installation deadline of Thursday evening to allow for lighting adjustments and final clean up on Friday morning.
2011 exhibit dates: Sept. 16-18. If you are interested in receiving more information or wish to order a picture CD, contact awaterous@gmail.com.
