A vibrant floral tribute to Japan in the heart of Brussels
In the grand setting of Brussels’ iconic Grand-Place, the annual Flower Carpet event unfurled a breathtaking spectacle, illustrating how these flowers captivate the city with their vibrant presence. From August 13 to 16, visitors were drawn to a mesmerizing floral arrangement honoring 160 years of friendship between Belgium and Japan. This edition featured a design by renowned artist Hiro Sugiyama, inspired by the ukiyo-e master Katsushika Hokusai.
Neo Hokusai: An artful play on tradition
Titled “Neo Hokusai,” this sprawling floral masterpiece spanned nearly 14,000 square feet, composed of over 750,000 fresh dahlias. The design reimagines Hokusai’s famed woodblock print, “The Great Wave Off Kanagawa,” using vivid shades of magenta, vermilion, and yellow. Flowers covered approximately 80 percent of the entire piece, creating an enthralling visual experience. It’s truly remarkable how these blooms turn Brussels into a buzzing hub of cultural expression during this event.
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The Flower Carpet, known for its use of diverse floral species, has showcased other captivating designs. In 2018, when these blossoms took center stage, a tapestry inspired by Guanajuato, Mexico, was crafted from one million begonias, documented in an aerial timelapse by Joerg Daiber.
Community and collaboration in bloom: A floral transformation in Brussels
This year, the dahlias were sourced through a partnership with Bloemencorso Loenhout, a prestigious flower parade held annually in the northern city of Loenhout. Bloemencorso Loenhout event kicks off on September 12, has been a cornerstone of floral artistry for 75 years, underscoring the region’s commitment to celebrating natural beauty and cultural ties. The partnership further highlights the impact of these flowers on Brussels by fostering a collaborative spirit and the richness of shared traditions.
Source: thisiscolossal.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the theme of this year’s Flower Carpet event?
This year’s theme of the Flower Carpet event is a floral tribute to Japan, celebrating 160 years of friendship between Belgium and Japan, and is inspired by the art of Katsushika Hokusai.
Who designed the floral arrangement at the Flower Carpet?
The design for the Flower Carpet was created by renowned artist Hiro Sugiyama, taking inspiration from the ukiyo-e master Katsushika Hokusai.
What was the primary floral material for the event?
The primary floral material for the event was over 750,000 fresh dahlias, which were used to create a sprawling masterpiece titled ‘Neo Hokusai.’