Pressed Art

Insider's Garden : Episode TIG-110 -- More Projects »
Pressed flowers add a unique decorative element to the home in a variety of items such as bookmarks and stationery. But they're also wonderful when used to create works of art. May Chen, owner of the Pressed Flower Gallery, creates glorious collages using flowers, leaves, herbs, vines, fruit and other natural materials.
PHOTO

Figure A
PHOTO

Figure B
Creating a three-dimensional effect (figure A) in the collage is done by layering, varying the size and color of materials. Large items placed in the foreground and smaller materials in the back give the illusion of depth, as does the rice paper. Items placed beneath the semi-transparent paper seem to be farther back than those placed on top (figure B). Brightly colored materials in the front of the picture and dark colors in the background create a sense of dimension.

No matter what natural material is used, be sure it's completely dry, since moisture can cause other materials to lose shape and color.

Photo

Pressed flowers, whose color and beauty will last for years, make an unusual addition to this clock face.
Photo

Use pressed flowers for a variety of small projects such as bookmarks, gift tags, magnets and stationery.
Guests
May Chen
Owner, Pressed Flower Gallery
1405 San Marino Ave. #100A
San Marino, CA 91108
Phone: 626-795-6669
E-mail: may@pressedflower.com
Website: www.pressedflower.com
Also in this Episode