As I sit here at my desk, I can't help but feel inspired by the incredible Constance Spry. Her vision and creativity have had a profound impact on my work as a illustrator, and I feel privileged to have discovered her during my work as a set designer I was creating floral displays for Disney show and we came across Constance and she became the reference point for our florals.
"I never worry about the rules. Instead, I think about what I like. And if something makes me happy, I try to make it beautiful."CS
Like me, you may not have heard of Constance Spry before. But let me tell you, she is a true feminist icon. She revolutionized the field of floral design in the early 20th century, challenging the traditional gender roles of the time and paving the way for generations of women to come.
"The world is wide, and I will not waste my life in friction when it could be turned into momentum." CS
Constance was a true visionary, unafraid to use unconventional materials and techniques to create stunning arrangements. She even used old man's beard (a type of lichen) in her designs, which was unheard of at the time. As she once said, "I believe that flowers should be used as they are, just as one uses food in cooking; as an artist uses paint, not to be limited by any rules, but to be free to create."
One of the things I admire most about Constance is how she used her creativity to break down barriers and challenge societal norms. She was a woman ahead of her time, and her legacy continues to inspire me to push the boundaries of what is possible in my own work.
"Flowers have the power to transform any space, and to make any moment more beautiful. I believe that everyone should have access to this kind of beauty, and that it's up to us as artists and designers to make it happen." CS
But Constance's impact extends far beyond the world of floral design. In fact, she even invented a dish that has become a British classic - coronation chicken. She created the recipe for the dish in 1953 to celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, and it quickly became a favorite across the country.
As I reflect on Constance's life and legacy, I am reminded of the power of creativity to effect change. Whether it's challenging gender norms, revolutionizing an industry, or simply inventing a delicious new recipe, creativity has the power to transform our world.
"Flowers are not just pretty things. They have the power to move us, to inspire us, to make us see the world in a different way." CS
So, to all of you reading this, I encourage you to embrace your creativity and let it guide you in whatever you do. Who knows - you just might change the world in the process.
Thank you, Constance Spry, for inspiring me to be a better artist and a better feminist. Your legacy lives on.