Crochet Coral Reef Sculptures Explain Mathematics

Image from here.

My thanks to Patricia Powell Kessler for posting this TED video on the sidebar of her blog. This talk appeals to me on so many levels. Margaret Wertheim discusses marine biology, the mathematics of hyperbolic geometry, textiles, folk art, environmental activism, and the passion of spontaneous creativity.

Recycled materials at Symposium 2011

The AIFD florists at Symposium 2011 proved that sustainable business practices don’t have to be boring or dreary, but in fact can be playful and beautiful.  

These pallets were elevated to a new high as grouped calla lilies, steel grass, hala leaves, and eremurus strike a pose reinforcing the geometric lines, while the orange roses and anthuriums provide a perfect accent.

Lois Hiranaga, AIFD used the whimsical Pinocchio rug as a youthful backdrop against sunflowers and crespedia. 

I smiled when I saw this display of Chinese steam baskets...

...wafting with fresh flowers.

The next time you trim your birch tree, rather than filling the dump or burning the branches in your fireplace, follow Gerry Gregg’s lead and slice them into discs to create a unique, reusable, 100% natural base. 

Who knew that plastic water and soda bottles...

...could look so great with phaleonopsis orchids and albino gloriosa lilies...

...and be illuminated into pillars for a green, urban look?

How great would it be to see these freesias and hala leaves springing from an urban landscape?

Taking these lessons to heart, I decided to re purpose Tracy’s award-winning napkin decorations and add an organic touch to the lampshades in our hotel room.