Flower arranging is therapeutic, satisfying and a source of beauty. Wagner Kreusch tells us why we should all be doing more of it
Words Pearl Boyd
Instagram can be blamed for a lot of things. Flower arranging is one. A whole new interest in the art and craft of floristry can be traced to a glut of envy-inspiring images of beautiful arrangements that look at once effortless and perfect. A new school dedicated to flowers is offering courses for those looking to make a career in flowers as well as anyone with a more domestic interest. Founded by Wagner Kreusch, former Head Tutor at McQueens Flower School, and Helen Dyson, an experienced teacher and florist, the London Flower School will teach students the art and business of floristry. This stylish new outpost in Kings Cross takes a freehand approach.Kreusch says: ‘Arranging flowers is a therapeutic exercise and we at the London Flower School believe that to arrange beautiful flowers you need more than rules. You require a respect for nature and a desire to express yourself. Therefore, instead of floristry golden rules, we would like to encourage you to think differently when approaching flowers for your home.’ Demonstrating how to create a mixed arrangement that looks casually asymmetrical while remaining fully contrived, Kreusch uses a clever yet simple method invented by Constance Spry that simply involves a ball of chicken wire placed into a vase. This holds the stems in place. Don’t be afraid of them, he says – bend them, cut them and move them around until your work looks right to you. Interspersing flowers with greenery adds body and creates the sense of a luxurious, bold bouquet. Good luck.
THE ANTI-RULES
1. Trust your intuition
We all have our own way of looking at beauty. Trust your taste and explore your creativity to feel more connected when it comes to flower arranging; the result of this will surprise you.
2. Look around you
Nature is a constant inspiration for our team. A walk in the park or a visit to a garden are excellent sources of inspiration. Mix that with a visit to an art gallery, The National Gallery for example, has an amazing collection of Dutch 17th Century paintings of flowers that are incredibly inspiring.
3. Technique as a tool
As a flower school, we believe that technique can help you to put your ideas in to practice. Look for a floristry course that can really help you gain confidence.
4. Find your own voice
The many styles of floristry that you see on Instagram right now prove that there is no right or wrong when it comes to arranging your flowers. Allow yourself to experiment and you will understand the power of this art form.londonflowerschool.com
