WMA presents Art in Bloom reception and programs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Melissa Rea
Director of Advancement, WMA
334.794.3871
mrea@wiregrassmuseum.org

DOTHAN, Alabama – January 19, 2023 — The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) presents Art in Bloom, a new program celebrating creativity during the museum’s 35th anniversary through innovative arrangements of floral and object design. These arrangements, to be made by area creatives, are inspired by and will accompany works of art on view from the museum’s Permanent Collection from February 2-4. Additional programs that week include a floristry workshop with Holly Carlisle, and floral design-inspired art activities at WMA’s free First Saturday Family Day program. 

With an open and no-cost application process, WMA has invited up to 12 area individuals, groups, or organizations to create floral and/or object-based arrangements inspired by the museum’s permanent collection. Limited spots are still available for participation; those interested can access the application online or call the museum at 334-794-3871. Participation in Art in Bloom is available on a first-come reservation basis, and all participants must agree to attend an information session and to abide by WMA’s guidelines.

Art in Bloom will open with an evening reception on Thursday, February 2nd, from 5:30-8pm, and will be open to the public through Saturday, February 4th during normal operating hours. Tickets to the event are $25, and include light hors d’oeuvres, a first look at floral arrangements, and an opportunity to meet the participating individuals or groups who designed each floral or object display. Proceeds from the event will support WMA’s annual arts programming.

Art in Bloom also includes the opportunity for Wiregrass residents to learn directly from floral designer Holly Carlisle, a Birmingham-based designer, during a workshop on Friday, February 3rd. Participants can create a one-of-a-kind seasonal botanical arrangement with the floristry expert and visual artist  exploring the “The Birmingham Style”. This unique approach to floristry is characterized by the juxtaposition of traditional Japanese and British flower arranging philosophies and techniques. In the workshop, Holly Carlisle will guide participants through a process using seasonal materials, both foraged and grown by Alabama flower farmers. The workshop is from 12:30-3:30pm; registration is $50 for members, and $60 for not-yet members, and is available by phone at 334-794-3871 or online at wiregrassmuseum.org. 

Art in Bloom also extends into one of WMA’s longest-running programs, First Saturday Family Day, with floral design inspired art activities in the museum’s studio on February 4th. The program is a free, come-and-go artmaking workshop from 10:30am-2:30pm, and requires no registration. First Saturday Family Day invites children, families, and visitors of all ages to WMA as a safe, welcoming place to gather and have meaningful art experiences together. 

For more information about any of the Art in Bloom programs, or WMA’s annual arts programming, call 334-794-3871 or visit wiregrassmuseum.org. 

About the Wiregrass Museum of Art

Wiregrass Museum of Art inspires a lifelong appreciation for the visual arts by providing innovative educational programs that engage diverse audiences through the collection and exhibition of quality works. Since its inception in 1987, WMA has offered educational programs, nationally-acclaimed art exhibitions and community events throughout the year. Its Board of Trustees guides the long-term vision and strategic goals, while its membership, City and County support, and grant funding provide the resources needed to fulfill its mission.

WMA’s galleries are open to the public every Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. General admission is always free.