If any of you have ever been to Leaf & Petal, you've probably seen Mark Thompson's custom arrangements for different clients. Mark is one of my favorite people to run into when I'm having a down day, he always has a smile! He and Jay Draper, of Father Nature, are pairing up for an installation for the 'Art of the Rose' installation at this year's Antiques at the Gardens. Mark is from Albertville, AL and Jay is from right here in Birmingham.
Mark Thompson
Jay Draper
They consider their design concept to be based on design as a noun as, person . place . thing . idea. Design is for people, the places they live, work,and play, the things they love and are inspired by, and the ideas that make it all come together.
Their style is collected, historic, natural, artful, both masculine and feminine, curated, emotional, and nostalgic. The theme 'Art of the Rose' should fit in perfectly with that! Alabama is such a fabulous resource for foraging. Whether it be in people's gardens, on the side of the road, or in the woods---its a gold mine! Mark & Jay like to work with all types of natural materials, plants, flowers, sticks, and moss. Sometimes they find things on a hike in the woods or roadside on a Sunday drive. They are both inspired by history and nature. We have a love for garden design, antiques, architecture, and interior design. Local Birmingham History is dear to our hearts.
When I came up with the theme the 'Art of the Rose', I explained to the tastemakers my reasoning was for them to take the theme and RUN with it! However they saw the theme come to life is how I wanted them to execute this installation. Whether it be through the art of written word about roses, roses in paintings, furniture, photography....anything that inspired them! I know that Mark & Jay will work fantastically with that theme, and I can't wait to see it!
I hope that you all will join us at the Antiques at the Gardens Gala this THURSDAY. For ticket, CLICK HERE. You can view the 'Art of the Rose' thought the entire show (Thursday to Sunday) with a general admission ticket.