ATKINSON — As a welcome harbinger of Spring, the Atkinson Garden Club presents what promises to be its finest floral and art extravaganza, Petals and Palettes.
An exhibit showcasing the works of talented local artists and the exquisite floral arrangements of Garden Club designers, the show is scheduled for a return engagement at the Atkinson Resort and Country Club, Country Club Drive, with a grand opening on Friday, March 22, from 1 to 7 p.m. and Saturday, March 23, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Often compared to the MFA’s annual Art in Bloom event, Petals and Palettes provides an opportunity for area-wide and juried artists to have their works viewed by the local community and florally interpreted by award winning Garden Club designers.
Past year’s exhibits have welcomed well over 400 guests and have included sculptures, tapestries, photographs, oils, water colors, acrylics, pastels, pen and ink, and even jewelry.
Designers use a wide array of fresh and dried floral material and greens to compliment and highlight the artwork’s forms, colors and textural elements.
Susan Carter, AGC member and one of the show’s co-chairs, attributes the show’s popularity to its lack of defined rules and limitations for both artists and designers, allowing creative impulses to freely flourish.
Tickets may be purchased at the door of the Tuscan Room, at $10 for those 16 and older. Admission includes a ballot so that each guest may select their favorite presentation and have the opportunity to vote for “Best in Show.” This year’s event will also include a raffle drawing or two.
Proceeds from Petals and Palettes are funneled into many community-based programs. These include college scholarships for Atkinson High School Students, flowers for senior luncheons, seasonal town plantings, holiday decorations, and the Garden Club’s educational and entertaining public workshops.
Take a brief respite from the cold blast of winter and enjoy the show amid the warmth of family and friends.
For more information, contact Marnie Finn at 603-489-1380.