Worcester Art Museum's 'Flora in Winter' Returns to Worcester

From Worcester Art Museum: Flora in Winter, one of Worcester’s most beloved traditions, takes place January 26 through 29 at the Worcester Art Museum. For four days, scores of imaginative floral displays transform the Museum into a wonderland awash in color, light, and a profusion of delicate perfumes—the perfect antidote to winter’s icy grip. Floral designers interpret works from WAM’s permanent collection and fill the Museum with decorative creations intended to delight and amaze. Related programming scheduled throughout the event makes Flora in Winter a truly immersive experience at just the right time of year. Flora in Winter is free with Museum admission; a separate ticket price applies to the opening party and Members-only programs.

“People really look forward to Flora, when WAM puts winter on ‘pause,’” says Public Events Coordinator Megan J. Blomgren Burgess. “They come every year with friends and family, full of energy, because this event piques all of your senses. There’s so much going on, and it’s delightful to see and smell flowers in the galleries. And the related programs give everyone close-up opportunities to see and learn more about floral design.”

Flora in Winter kicks off Thursday, January 26 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. with KABAHBLOOOM: An Explosion of Color, an opening night party with refreshments, music, and a cash bar. This year’s theme is inspired by KABAHBLOOOM: The Art and Storytelling of Ed Emberley, a WAM exhibition that brings to the fore children’s book illustrator Ed Emberley’s vibrant, creative drive, and happy energy—the perfect complement to Flora. Partygoers are encouraged to dress up in honor of the show’s colorful themes. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling 1-800-838-3006.

Flora in Winter public programs—including guided tours, floral demonstrations, a lecture by local art historian Antonella Doucette on the role of flowers in mythology and art, and a performance of Swedish melodies and original compositions by Oskar Stenmark & Piatruba—are free with Museum admission and do not require reservations. Space is limited for these popular programs, so people are encouraged to arrive early. Special Members-only programs delve more deeply into the themes and floral design techniques. Advance registration is required and space is limited. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling 1-800-838-3006.

Programming for kids of all ages includes Thumbprint Flowers, inspired by illustrator Ed Emberley’s thumbprint creations. The Origami Flower Scavenger Hunt, on both weekend days, invites participants to find Art Carts at different locations in the Museum. At each cart, materials are available to make an origami flower, which can be brought home as a bouquet, to keep alive Flora in Winter’s explosion of color.

Flora in Winter is sponsored by People’s United Bank and Unum.

For more information about Flora in Winter, visit the Worcester Art Museum website.

Photo courtesy of Pixabay