Hillview Floristry
This silkscreen print depicts a moment at a market stall, focusing on the interaction between Wanda, the flower seller, and her wares. A large section of pink represents the plastic wrap around a bouquet, partially concealing the flowers, while a bold blue signifies a plastic bag—a common but often unnoticed detail of daily life. Wanda's hands emerge between these colors, offering the flowers with a quiet gesture.
Her image is rendered in halftone dots, reminiscent of vintage newsprint, which blend into the flowers, suggesting a connection between the seller and her work. The piece highlights themes of identity and labor, exploring how individuals invest themselves in their professions. The contrast between the vibrant flowers and the stark plastic emphasizes the divide between the natural and the manufactured, the valued and the disposable.
Inspired by the raw energy found in Bukowski’s poetry, the artwork embraces authenticity and imperfection. The halftone technique references traditional printmaking while engaging with modern aesthetics, reflecting the evolving nature of local businesses and communities.
Part of a series examining overlooked aspects of local enterprises, this print captures details often unnoticed in daily life. It acknowledges the role of workers like Wanda, whose personal touch adds meaning to their craft. The transformation of her image into flowers symbolises the deep connection between people and the work they do.
Hillview Floristry goes beyond a simple market scene to examine themes of value and human connection. In an age of impersonal transactions, this artwork highlights the intimacy present in everyday interactions. It invites reflection on the quiet contributions of individuals whose work shapes the world around them.