Is there anything more beautiful than a bunch of flowers? We love how blooms add to a space but sometimes it can be tricky to figure out what to do with them once they’re past the freshness date. However, there are options. From pretty pressed petals to beautiful dried flower chandeliers, we’re lucky to have local artists who are intent on making their art as sustainable as possible.
Enter Ra Searll, who makes use of dried indigenous biodiversity (think fynbos an the like) in their work to craft striking chandeliers that emit a gorgeous fragrance. It’s a great way to make sure flowers have a longer life cycle.
This project began in 2021, as part of finding a way of repurposing flowers used personally and for events.
Ra explains, “As an artist who creates dried flower installations, I am captivated by the delicate beauty and textures of these natural wonders. My signature piece is a dried flower chandelier that combines a variety of floral shapes and colors, bringing a unique touch of elegance to any space.”
She collects and recycles them by drying and preserving them, revealing new beauty in their dried form. Since early childhood, Ra recognised the magnificence of noticing the small details flowers have to offer. In her flower chandeliers she uses different textures, colours, shapes and forms. Ra loves playing with fynbos textures in contrast with the delicacy of softer flowers like a rose.
She further explains, “I aim to create installations that are not only visually stunning, but also evoke an emotional response from the viewer. My use of color and texture creates a sense of harmony and tranquility, and my hope is that my work brings a sense of peace and joy to those who experience it.”
The dried flower installations are a celebration of nature, life, and the beauty that surrounds us. They represent the delicate balance of beauty and impermanence that exists in our world, and serve as a reminder to appreciate the fleeting moments of beauty in our lives.
If you’d like to order a custom flower chandelier you can email Ra on radiatingra@gmail.com for more information.