FLOWERS are captivating in the eyes of the beholder, and Phubast Chesdmethee, an international floral consultant from Thailand, has made it his profession to provide artistic presentations of floral arrangements.
At the recent International Flower Arrangement Conference, ‘Bloom Oman 2024’, held at the National Museum of Oman, Phubast, affectionately known as Poo, was the cynosure of all eyes. In an interview, he shared insights into his role and experiences at the event.
Among the various aspects of Bloom Oman, what do you consider the highlight, especially your role? Was the crafting of the 60-meter-long grand centerpiece during the ‘Beyond Blossoms’ fashion show the standout moment for you?
Phubast: At ‘Bloom Oman’, I set up several highlights, each happening in Oman for the first time with unique concepts and scale. The flower-with-arts concept and the style and techniques of the designs were unique. The scale was large and oversized, matching objects from the museum. I established 40 sets of floral installations for the National Museum of Oman, conducted a floral workshop for 100 participants of World Association for Floral Artists (WAFA) Oman, presented eight large designs on stage, and orchestrated a floral fashion show with ten models. The 60-metre-long gala dinner centerpiece was indeed grand.
Were the floral elements in your demonstration exclusively sourced from Oman, or did you integrate components from external sources?
Phubast: Most of my materials were from Oman, including dried leaves, branches, tree trunks, and foliage. However, I also utilised some imported flowers and materials from countries like The Netherlands, Thailand, Kenya, China, and Vietnam.
The Bloom Oman fashion show showcased models embodying different gemstones such as the Queen of Diamond, Peridot, Emerald, Tourmaline, and Amethyst. Could you elaborate on the underlying concept that inspired this distinctive approach?
Phubast: The main title was ‘Hidden Treasures.’ I aimed to showcase the techniques and possibilities of arranging flowers, highlighting the beauty of floral materials alongside the imagination of models, makeup, and jewelry.
Did the fashion show at Bloom Oman incorporate specific elements from Omani culture or draw inspiration from the country’s traditions?
Phubast: Flowers, as a language, can showcase the culture of any country. The charm and popularity of gemstones are universal, and I believe Omanis would appreciate them. The floral designs were inspired by the daily life of people in Oman.
As an International Flower Master, what advice do you have for aspiring floral artists in Oman? How can they enhance their skills and contribute to the floral art scene in the country?
Phubast: My sincere advice is for floral artists everywhere to learn correct theory, practice, and implementation. Be open-minded, ready to learn from various floral design styles globally, and encourage the use of floral products in daily life to showcase the country's culture through flowers.
You collaborated with artist Madhvi Ramesh Khimji, WAFA Oman, Honorary President, on eight demonstration designs that fused art and flowers. Could you provide insights into the creative process and elaborate on the inspiration behind these collaborative designs?
Phubast: It was an honour to be inspired by Madhvi and Radhika Khimji’s artworks. I interpreted each artwork’s concept and direction with my own floral design approach, respecting the creativity of fellow artists.
In what ways do you believe floral artistry can engage and connect with the local community, and how can it contribute to the cultural landscape of Oman? Can you share any upcoming projects or collaborations you have in mind, especially those that involve showcasing floral artistry on an international stage?
Phubast: Floral materials and artistry act as soft power, connecting people and local communities. They serve as natural ambassadors, showcasing the originality and landscape of Oman. My next project is the Hong Kong Flower Show in March, where I’ll display a 25-square-metre floral exhibit. I’ll incorporate inspiration and memories from ‘Bloom Oman’ into the showcase.
How do you envision floral artistry engaging and connecting with the local community, contributing to the cultural landscape of Oman? Beyond floral design, what other activities do you enjoy and how do these personal interests influence or inspire your approach to floral artistry?
Phubast: I enjoy traveling, gardening, and charity works. Traveling provides imagination and inspiration, gardening fosters patience and concentration, and charity work exposes me to diverse stories, enhancing my skills and works.
I also have plans to visit Oman after the summer in order to see more of this beautiful country.
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