Hints for Competitors

WA FLORAL ART SOCIETY INC '

NEW COMPETITORS – HELPFUL GUIDELINES FOR COMPETITIVE WORK

The following information has been supplied to offer suggestions to help the Floral Designer contemplating entering competitions and common faults to avoid.

For a quick reference please 'click' on the following links:

HINTS TO HELP ALL EXHIBITORS - COMMON FAULTS TO AVOID

How to Start - Entering the Show - Prior to the Show - Buying Flowers - On Staging Day

How to Start : Attend as many shows as possible and study the exhibits – This will help in aiding your decision as to whether you are confident enough to enter shows. Plant material and flowers should tell a story, interpretation should not rely too much on accessories.

Entering the Show: Read the show schedule thoroughly. Do not be tempted to enter too many classes, especially if it is your first time entering. Make sketches of what you intend to do. Do a ‘mock up’ and practice at home. If the schedule is unclear ask the Show Secretary for further clarification. Check the date for acceptance of entries and confirm your entry as soon as possible.

Prior to the Show: Note the allocated staging area and take a tape measure to ensure you are within the specified space. Make a checklist list of the items you will need at the show. Soak oasis the day before (only needs a few minutes) and ensure it is not too wet as the oasis will break up once the flowers are added. Make sure your mechanics are firm.

Buying Flowers: Consider the flowers you are using in your design and the ‘open’ stage you require them to be during competition. Some flowers may require several days to open eg liliums, gladiolus etc. In the warmer months buy flowers as late as possible, say the day before the show. Condition plant material in water adding a capful of bleach to help keep the water fresh. Cut base of stem at a slant. Take a water spray to spray the arrangement at the last minute.

On Staging Day: Carefully pack plant material in boxes (damp newspaper will help keep plant material in good condition) or buckets. Pack the car, checking your list for all your needs. On arrival at the venue, report to the Steward who will direct you to your staging area. An old towel will help clean your area and mop up any spilt water. Top up your design with water and spray your arrangement before leaving. Give your exhibit a quick examination before leaving, to check it is staged at the correct angle, no wilted or damaged plant material and that nothing is out of place.

Do NOT be put off by the impressive work around you – those competitors may be just as concerned about your lovely work. “DO NOT COPY” as judges have usually read all the books.

HINTS TO HELP ALL EXHIBITORS:

	Staging designs in competitions provides a wealth of experience for the Floral Designer.
	Only enter the class/es you feel you have sufficient time to stage.
	Always read the Show Schedule and Competitor Information carefully and follow it meticulously.
	Always arrive in plenty of time to unload your plant materials and set up your exhibits/s.
	Report to the Show Secretary who will direct you to your staging area, checking that you design is staged in the correct class.
	Keep your materials and activities within your own allotted space so as not to disturb and hamper other exhibits.
	Do not disturb or knock the staging as this could adversely affect other exhibitors.
	If the show will be conducted over several days ensure you provide adequate water for all your materials to survive the duration of the show.
	Be considerate regarding the rules relating to watering, rubbish removal etc., and ensure you allow sufficient time to clean up your own work area.
	Give each of your exhibits a quick examination before leaving, to check they are staged at the correct angle and nothing is out of place.
	Depart PROMPTLY at the close of staging time.
	A good dictionary will provide a wealth of information to assist with interpretation of themes.
	‘Original Designs’ – not repeats of your own or copies from books, magazines or of other exhibitors work – Original designs will be more favourably considered by the judge.
	Remember - the judge’s decision is final, learn to be a graceful loser and a modest winner.
	An Exhibit must not be altered in anyway after it has been judged.

COMMON FAULTS TO AVOID

	Poor interpretation of the class title or not complying with the schedule
	Poor use of the Principles and Elements of Design and Colour
	Use of wilting or damaged plant material
	Lack of harmony in components used
	Poor workmanship with mechanics and mechanics being too obvious
	Use of stained, creased, untidy, dominant or unsuitably coloured drapes, bases too large or too small, damaged containers, dirty driftwood etc.
	Use of too many accessories out of scale with each other or the rest of the exhibit
	Poor use of space
	Too perfect symmetry (monotonous)
	Overcrowding, when more material is used than is necessary
	Accessories scattered rather than grouped.

WA Floral Art Society Website 'Site Map'

Back to Top

Website developed and managed for the West Australian Floral Art Society Inc by Dianne Buckles.

For any problems or questions regarding this website please contact Dianne on email : dbuckles@bigfoot.com.au

Last updated: March 24, 2007.