Posted March 9, 2026
Local floral designers artfully interpreted nine works on view in the Vero Beach Museum of Art galleries for this year’s Art in Bloom exhibition and fundraiser. March 5 marked the event’s 16th year supporting VBMA’s mission to provide significant programming in the arts and humanities to our entire community. Proceeds support educational and community outreach programs for children and adults throughout Indian River County.
After viewing and voting on the arrangements, the more than 370 attendees were greeted by VBMA Executive Director Brady Roberts and Luncheon Committee Co-chairs Middy Perkins and Alden Pflager in Holmes Great Hall, before a live flower-arranging demonstration by Sandra Sigman, founder of Les Fleurs.
Following the demonstration, awards were presented in six categories:
- Best Interpretation: Julie Herrmann for Mornin’, Joe, inspired by Griddle Inn by Ralph Going
- Best Use of Rhythm: Elaine Sigler for Evolution of VBMA, inspired by Museum in the Garden Concept Sketch by Brad Cloepfil
- Best Use of Texture: Ann Jones & Ann Webber for Order Within Chaos, inspired by Landscape of a Structure from a Dream by Larry Dinkin
- Best Use of Color: Ginger DeSimone for In Ikebana the Triangular Form, inspired by Triangular Yellows by Richard Anuskiewicz
- Best in Show: Leontine LaPointe for Bright Lights… Dark Streetscape… Dank Chiaroscuro!, inspired by Variety Photoplay by Davis Cone
Additionally, Arun Wijetilleke, a cherished member of VBMA’s Art in Bloom community who passed away in July 2025, was posthumously honored with the Director’s Choice award to commemorate the artistry, spirit, and commitment she brought to each Art in Bloom event. In addition to generously sharing her time and talent as a dedicated floral designer for over 15 years, Arun served on the Board of Trustees of the Center for the Arts during its transition to the Vero Beach Museum of Art.
Guests who visited the Museum throughout the weekend enjoyed all nine floral creations, displayed near each interpreted artwork. These included designs by Hollis Forbes, Christy Maxwell, and Cress Meier.
Vero Beach Museum of Art is grateful for Art in Bloom’s generous sponsors, co-chairs, floral artists, and event attendees.