painting with petals

Art in Bloom at Orlando Museum of Art Showcases Scenstational Works by Floral Designers at the Annual Fundraiser

The Orlando Museum of Art transforms into a fragrant, floral spectacle for three days in March during its annual fundraiser Art in Bloom. The festival of fine arts and flowers pairs floral designers with museum artworks for artistic renderings painted with petals. The Council of 101 hosts Art in Bloom as one of two museum fundraisers, including the Festival of Trees in the fall.

Art in Bloom takes place March 24 through March 26 at the Orlando Museum of Art with a mix of social events and famous-name guest speakers, including talks by renowned interior designer Amanda Lindroth and author and French impressionist painter Jill Steenhuis.

the Council 101 members put their time and hearts into this event. Whether you are interested in design, antiques, lifestyle products, or fresh picks from our outdoor market, there is something for everyone,” says Linda Cegelis, president of the Council of 101.

Art in Bloom originated as an antique and garden show in 1983. Since then, it has evolved to encompass floral designers and highly respected dealers offering an array of antiques, paintings, jewelry, porcelain, vintage collectibles, and much more. Floral works of art also extend to the tabletop, where talented designers will create tablescapes on view.

“We anticipate up to 30 floral designers who we select in a curated process. The Council 101 members are enmeshed in the floral community, working with floral designers in our personal and professional lives. Those relationships bring together these talented florists and artists for the event,” explains Art In Bloom Event Chairwoman Stacy Jennings.

“Each floral designer chooses a piece of art that is meaningful to them from the Orlando Museum of Art’s permanent collection and current exhibitions. They spend time with the art, learn about it, return to their studios, and interpret it with flowers,” Linda adds.

Interior designer and entrepreneur Amanda Lindroth headlines the event on Friday, March 24, at a VIP champagne brunch, and as a guest speaker following the brunch. Amanda lives in Nassau and owns interior design stores in Palm Beach and Charleston, South Carolina, where she sells her home collection. Her signature style embodies a breezy sophistication expressed in vibrant layers of texture and color.

French impressionist painter Jill Steenhuis, author of the book Art, Soul, & Destiny, An Artist’s Journey from America to Provence, is the guest of honor at a VIP champagne brunch on Saturday morning, March 25, and will offer live painting demonstrations from 11am to 2pm. She teaches a drawing class using pastels on Sunday, March 26, focused on artistic expression.

The action-packed event includes antique verbal appraisals for $10 per item. “If you collect antiques, you can bring two of your prized items on Saturday or Sunday from 12-2pm and receive a professional valuation,” Stacy says.

Visitors also enjoy daily musical performances by pianists and harpists while shopping at the event’s pop-up shops, Farmer’s Market, and dining at the cafe.

Suspense is building for the Mystery Home Tour, an event highlight that remains a secret until guests arrive to tour it. “Someone in the community will open up their home, inviting Art in Bloom guests in small group tours by bus to tour the residence and learn about the homeowner’s art and antique collections,” Linda shares. During the Mystery Home Tour, docents in each room will serve as guides providing insight and commentary.

Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies is this year’s title sponsor for Art in Bloom, which will open daily from 10am to 5pm, March 24-26. The price of admission is $20 per adult and $12 for children ages 3-12, military, firsts responders and individuals 60-plus. All special events require additional ticket purchases, including talks, classes, and the Mystery Home Tour. Learn more at omart.org/events/art-in-bloom