Basic Design "At Home With Flowers"
UNIT 5 Miniatures, part two class notes, page 4
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Basic Design "At Home With Flowers" UNIT 5 Miniatures, part two class notes, page 4 |
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Throughout history people have been fascinated by the making of miniatures.
We know that small figures of animals have been found in archeological digs of
many periods from all over the world. Ancient Egyptians created beautiful
jewelry using tiny animal figures. Collections of Peruvian miniature
vessels no more than two inches high have been discovered in ancient graves,
which possible held small bouquets of fragrant flowers and herbs. Although
today we use the word "miniature" to describe anything that is a small
reproduction of something larger, the word is derived from the Latin word "minium".
Minium was the design used on borders of paper and around initials in
manuscripts and musical scores.
The art of Bonsai certainly has to be mentioned in speaking of miniatures. The Japanese jealously guarded the secrets of growing dwarf trees for many years. However, through their willingness to teach this ancient art, the growing of bonsai is now carried on in many countries. PLANT MATERIAL The most exciting thing that happens to an arranger of miniature flowers is that nature's world suddenly has a new dimension. A bud, a twig, tendril, seed or even the new growth of an established older plant produce possibilities for these tine designs.
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Principles of Design Elements of Design
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MECHANICS Tweezers are a must; manicure scissors, cuticle stick with a blunt end to press things into place, and an eye dropper for watering. A small rigid dried stem, or a darning needle, are handy to make a pre-determined hole for placing a weak stem. A ruler, a steady hand and a good pair of bi-focals are also useful. The mechanics need to accomplish the desired results can tax even the most ingenious mind. Small pin holders can be found made especially for miniatures,. You can use floral glue, florist clay, chicken wire crushed into small spaces - to give support. Floral foam is better crumbled or powdered so as not to be too stiff to accept fragile stems. Larger hollow stems can help support small stems. |
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