FridayOL

Fàtima Valldeperas is not your typical florist. While many embrace the ephemeral beauty of natural blooms, Valldeperas has boldly championed the use of artificial flowers, transforming them into stunning sculptures that grace luxury hotels and high-end brand events. Her innovative approach has garnered international recognition, leading her to conduct workshops in Shanghai and attracting attention from galleries worldwide.

Valldeperas’s journey began with a traditional floral background, but she quickly realized the limitations of relying solely on natural materials. “Working with natural flowers is beautiful, but it’s also very restrictive,” she explains. “They wilt, they change color, they’re susceptible to weather conditions. Artificial flowers, on the other hand, offer a freedom and permanence that allows for endless experimentation.”

Her creations are a mesmerizing blend of the organic and the manufactured. She skillfully manipulates artificial flowers – often silk or high-quality plastics – to construct elaborate sculptures that mimic the forms and textures of natural flora. The result is a captivating visual experience, where the familiar becomes strikingly new. She doesn't see artificial flowers as a replacement for the real thing, but rather as a complementary medium.

“Artificial flowers have opened up a whole new avenue for me,” Valldeperas states. “I can create pieces that are larger than life, defy gravity, and maintain their beauty for years. It's about pushing the boundaries of what's possible in floral art.” She meticulously sources her materials, seeking out the most realistic and aesthetically pleasing artificial flowers available. The quality of the materials is crucial to the overall impact of her work.

The appeal of Valldeperas’s art extends beyond its visual beauty. It also sparks a conversation about sustainability and the evolving role of artificial materials in contemporary design. In a world increasingly conscious of environmental impact, her work challenges preconceived notions and encourages a reevaluation of what constitutes beauty and artistry.

Her workshops in Shanghai were a resounding success, attracting a diverse group of artists and designers eager to learn her techniques. “It was incredible to share my process and see how others embraced the possibilities of artificial flowers,” she recalls. The workshops focused on various techniques, including shaping, coloring, and assembling artificial flowers to create unique and expressive sculptures.

Fàtima Valldeperas’s work is a testament to the power of innovation and the beauty of unexpected combinations. She’s not just creating floral art; she’s redefining it, one artificial bloom at a time. Her future plans include expanding her gallery representation and continuing to explore new ways to push the boundaries of her craft, proving that beauty can be found in the most surprising of places. The question isn't whether it's real or fake, but rather, is it art? Valldeperas's answer is a resounding yes.