EDGE - the fanzine

A floral journey through CULTURE

Showcasing outstanding examples of the transformative power of culture

Each locality, every society, and each person possesses a wealth of traditions, habits, and influences that manifest in their endeavors. Collaborations facilitate cultural bonds, sparking creativity and mutual enhancement. As imaginative individuals, we serve as the channels through which culture expresses itself. Our perspective is molded by the vivid colors and intricate designs that envelop us.In this issue of EDGE fanzine, we aim to highlight remarkable instances of culture's transformative influence, with the aspiration of encouraging you to expand your horizons and embrace new prospects.

We're thrilled to announce the release of the 4th edition of EDGE Fanzine by EMC! This project, which began a couple of years ago, has evolved into a captivating exploration of the world of floral design, and we're excited to share it with you. But first, let's take a moment to revisit the roots of this endeavour. EDGE Fanzine was conceived with a clear mission: to celebrate floral design as a cultural phenomenon, created by enthusiasts for enthusiasts. Just as a fanzine is a labor of love produced by those who share a passion, EDGE is a testament to our love for the world of flowers and the boundless creativity it inspires.

At EMC, we're not just passionate about floral design; we're also fervently curious about the depths of the creative thought process. We relish the opportunity to explore different perspectives and immerse ourselves in the world of blossoms and blooms. Each edition of EDGE Fanzine revolves around a theme that serves as the guiding star for its content. We've delved into "integration" as a concept, explored global "trends," celebrated "weddings around the world," and now, we invite you to embark on a journey of "Culture."

In this latest edition, culture takes centre stage, and the editor's foreword beautifully captures the essence of this theme. Culture, in all its forms, infuses our floral designs with unique perspectives, distinctive narratives, and a profound sense of belonging. Just as a single bloom thrives within a diverse garden, each culture brings forward its essence, fragrance, and symbolism, leaving an distinct mark on the design. Every region, every community, and every individual carries within them a treasury of traditions, customs, and references that emerge in their floral work. Collaborations foster cultural connections, sparking innovation and mutual enrichment. As creative souls, we become the conduits through which culture finds its voice, and our vision is shaped by the vibrant hues and intricate patterns that surround us.

In this edition of EDGE Fanzine, we aim to showcase outstanding examples of the transformative power of culture, inspiring you to broaden your horizons and open your mind to new possibilities. The pages of this edition feature a rich variety of articles that delve into culture and flowers in different ways. From exploring the "culture of color" and analyzing the vibrant hues of India as a source of inspiration for large-scale permanent floral installations to the "culture of beauty" that sees floral jewlery and body adornments designed with flowers, we invite you to dive into a world of inspiration.

Join us as we explore innovative techniques with the EMC Educational team and admire inspirational designs that skillfully use the Elements and Principles of Design to convey powerful messages through floral art. We'll venture into "culture within borders" and discover the magic of plant design, offering fresh perspectives on what culture means to us as floral enthusiasts. Delve deeper into the "culture of personal growth" as we dissect the five stages of a floral designer, providing valuable insights into each step of the journey. Travel with us to Venice, where culture and traditions come alive in a grand event designed by the renowned Tomas de Bruyne.

And there's more! This edition boasts a 50-page special addendum that offers a captivating glimpse into the recent Interflora World Cup 2023 in floral design. We bring you interviews with all three medalists, insights from members of the jury and the technical committee, and up-close images of the breathtaking designs that graced the competition.

At EMC, we believe that culture is not just a backdrop; it's a dynamic force that shapes our creative expressions. We hope that this edition of EDGE Fanzine will ignite your passion for floral design and encourage you to explore the intricate interplay between culture and creativity. Join us on this captivating floral journey through culture. Get ready to be inspired, informed, and immersed in the world of floral design like never before. Welcome to the 4th edition of EDGE Fanzine – your gateway to the vibrant and diverse world of flowers.

The EDGE Fanzine is available of the EMC website, here.