WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NC – Leading floral designers in North Carolina gathered in Wrightsville Beach to showcase their floral creations inspired by fine art. Judged by nationally accredited judges Frances Thrash of Virginia and Pam Braun of Tennessee, activities concluded today at host hotel Blockade Runner Beach Resort.

The four-day Art & The Bloom exhibition and competition included expert courses in floral design, botanical illustration and art with Preston Montague, building terrariums, millinery fashion shows, afternoon teas and entertainment, and a gardening book presentation by Mark Weathington of JC Raulston Arboretum at NCSU.

The Best of Show was awarded to Polly Kopka of Hubert, NC, and Suzanne Tarry of Apex, NC, received the People’s Choice Award.

New Hanover Garden Club, organizer of Art & The Bloom, is Federated through the National Garden Club and Garden Clubs of North Carolina, Art & The Bloom is organized by New Hanover Garden Club. Event proceeds will benefit gardening projects for nonprofit organizations.