These dark January days make me think of the element of design ‘Light.” The elements of design are the physical properties that may be seen, touched, or smelled—-light, color, line, form, size, space, texture, and fragrance.
LIGHT
Light is essential for vision. Without light there is no color. The amount and intensity of light dramatically impacts our perception of color.
In nature, light changes from moment to moment. A gray, cloudy day sheds soft illuminations on flowers and plants while bright sunshine makes flower vibrate with energy and reflection.
Season is important as well. The sun strikes the earth at different angles through the year. In the winter the sun is closer to the earth but its rays are slanting and less intense, while in summer the sun is directly above and shines directly on the earth giving us warm and sunburns.
When arranging flowers, it is important to consider the element of light, the time of day and the setting, indoors or out, direct or ambient light. Soft colors do well with gentle natural light, strong hues radiate in bright light, and white and cream colors flowers stand out in the evening.
When planning flower for an event, consider the light and the effect it will have on your floral choices. Daylight is the perfect time for romantic blues and pinks, strong colors will show well in bright sunlight, and candlelight can show off the translucent quality of delicate flowers.
This arrangement was done in mid-summer for the North American Lily Society. It features the fabulous martagan or tiger lily which I had never used before but now have planted them for next year’s garden season. The design looks totally different when photographed on a soft gray background, then in front of a morning kitchen window, and finally on the dining room table with reflection on the wood surface.
Looking out our kitchen window on a damp, winter day the Sango Kaku maple’s branches cast a crimson glow. I like to play with this ephemeral moment by placing flowers that enhance the light.
In summer outside the same window, Sango Kaku’s branches are soft green but still the morning light makes a great place to photograph flowers.
These spring flowers have a totally different feel when photographed in daylight and with a black background. Notice the intensity of the blue hydrangea when photographed under lights.
And we can’t forget the power of using a black background to show off the colors and vibrancy of bright spring hues.
Always remember the element of light and how it enhances the interplay of flowers and the world around us. As our days get longer we can enjoy the moments of sunrise, sunsets, cloudy days, bright days, and evening stars.
