Flower Ceiling

Flower Ceiling is an intriguing embodiment of the human impulse to replicate nature. As Robert Elliot suggests, the allure of the natural world has led us to create human-made environments that mimic it. However, these “fake” versions of nature often lack the rawness, unpredictability, and complexity of the natural world. By creating spaces that are more aesthetically pleasing to humans than the surrounding wilderness, these environments can also draw resources away from natural ecosystems, perpetuating the perception of a separation between nature and human society.

Peter Nelson challenges the false dichotomy between nature and human-made space, asserting that they are inextricably intertwined. Flower Ceiling exemplifies this entwined relationship by questioning our traditional perception of the environment and artificiality. 

Rhizom Festival 2022, the artworks venue, offers a platform for artists and performers to express themselves freely and creates a diverse community that celebrates difference. By rejecting societal norms, visitors are encouraged to embrace diverse perspectives and cultures, fostering interdependence and recognition of ourself. The festival also emphasises the significance of honouring our profound interconnectedness with the natural world, which aligns with the concept of the Flower Ceiling.

Ultimately, Flower Ceiling represents the complex relationship between nature and human-made space. It reminds us of our innate desire to replicate nature, but also the importance of recognising the rawness and unpredictability that make it truly unique. It encourages us to embrace our connection to the natural world and to create spaces that not only reflect our aesthetic values but also support the ecosystems that sustain us.