Experience Flowers Forever at the Indiana State Museum

Visitors can surround themselves with the timeless beauty of blooms when the Indiana State Museum opens Flowers Forever supported by the Efroymson Family Fund.

Running from Feb. 6 through May 10, the new experience will celebrate the unique ways florals appear in life’s important milestones, from birth to death and many noteworthy moments in between, as well as the deep meaning flowers can hold, from love and admiration to sadness and remembrance.

“The theme of flowers is very approachable,” said Paula Katz, senior curator of art for the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites. “This exhibition has such an ease and a comfort so that everyone can appreciate it. Hopefully people can also learn from it and rethink the way they see flowers everywhere throughout their lives.”

Featuring more than 50 objects, this vibrant exhibit will explore the many ways flowers shape the stories of daily life. From a flowing floral gown by Bill Blass to botanical bell-bottom jeans, guests can see examples of flowering fashions then discover how the natural appeal of blooms is reflected at home in works by renowned Hoosier artists including T.C. Steele, Carl Graf and Leota Loop. One-of-a-kind pieces will also illustrate how flowers can evoke a range of emotions, from the cheerful Corndog Vase by contemporary artist Kelly Bohnenkamp to a somber golden rose casket.

Several interactive experiences invite visitors of all ages to use their senses and further immerse themselves in the world of florals. A collection of scents will give guests a hint of how the blossoms in featured artworks might smell. Families will enjoy arranging beautiful bouquets and creating new blooms. Plus, attendees can take a fun quiz to find their flower match and learn its symbolism.

Flowers Forever is free for members and included with museum admission, which is $23 for adults, $17 for youth (ages 3-17) and $21 for seniors. Visitors can go to IndianaMuseum.org to learn more and save by purchasing admission in advance.

Additionally, attendees have a unique opportunity to see Flowers Forever through the eyes of its curator. Katz will offer insights about the significance of flowers and floral motifs during special tours of the exhibit at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Feb. 12 and 11 a.m. March 7. These one-hour tours are free for members and $5 for nonmembers. Attendees are encouraged to register in advance online.