Memories of Rose and Journey of the Blue

Space Decoration Inspired by Giovanni Bellini's Portrait

The inspiration for this art work comes from the intriguing story behind Giovanni Bellini's painting, "Portrait of Marthe de Florian." This painting had been hidden away for 70 years until it was discovered in Florian's apartment in Paris. "Memories of Rose and Journey of the Blue" serves as an homage to the beautiful memories of Giovanni and his lover Florian. "La Memoire De La Rose" depicts Florian's elegant life in Paris, while "La Voyage Bleu" represents her life after the war, showcasing her strength and dignity.

What sets this design apart is its incorporation of the Japanese art of "Ikebana" or flower arrangement. The rose-colored vase and flowers in "La Memoire De La Rose" symbolize Florian's muslin pink dress and the era in which she lived. The protrusion to the upper left, painted white, represents a dry plant and Giovanni's passionate hands. A crystal pearl hangs from it, signifying Florian's tears of emotion. In contrast, "La Voyage Bleu" portrays the despair of war with its blue hues, offering a contrasting emotional experience.

The realization of this design involves the composition of various materials, including dried and artificial flowers, a glass vase, pearls, metal chains, acrylic board, and metal wire. The meticulous arrangement and combination of these elements create a visually stunning and emotionally evocative piece.

With dimensions of 600mm in width, 200mm in depth, and 550mm in height, "Memories of Rose and Journey of the Blue" is a striking presence that can enhance any space with its artistic decor. Its unique properties and attention to detail make it a standout piece in the realm of interior decorations.

When displaying this art work, it is important to consider a few tips. Over time, the overall coloration may fade, so it is advisable to avoid direct sunlight. The two parts can be arranged side by side, as shown in the photos, or placed apart from each other, depending on the available space. It can also be interesting to display them back to back, allowing the audience flow to dictate the viewing sequence, with "La Memoire De La Rose" being seen first, followed by "La Voyage de Bleu."

The project for "Memories of Rose and Journey of the Blue" started in April 2016 in Tokyo and was exhibited in the Flower Art Award in Tokyo Midtown in April 2017. The designer, Oyu, conducted research on Italian Impressionism and came across Giovanni Bellini's painting, which inspired this unique creation.

This design has received recognition and accolades, including the Iron A' Design Award in the Fine Arts and Art Installation Design category in 2021. This award highlights the well-designed, practical, and innovative nature of "Memories of Rose and Journey of the Blue," which meets professional and industrial requirements while contributing to a better world.