GROUNDWORK Ed.02
LOFI WONDER
SUPER BLOOM AT ABBOTSFORD CONVENT
In amongst the built up urban environment of Abbotsford, surrounded by concrete, roads and traffic, a whimsical oasis of wonder is blooming. Abbotsford Convent’s installation ‘Super Bloom at The Convent’ invites visitors to experience the joy of a blooming meadow up close, bringing a wildness and untamed beauty to the city.
Located at the entrance to the Abbotsford Convent, the meadow has re-imaged an otherwise disused space, an act of glorious defiance in an otherwise urban setting. The meadow is a floral welcome and draws guests in to pause and take the time for a gentle meander through the meadow, calling them to immerse themselves in the joy of nature.
Bringing wonder and beauty into an urban environment is an act of rebellion, calling all visitors to connect with nature and revel in the abundance. Humans, plants and animals alike benefit from the meadows presence with pollinators and insects flocking to the meadow in droves - seeking out the floral riches.
Situated at the entrance to the Abbotsford Convent, the meadow greets visitors with its floating swathes of bobbing floral heads and lanterns of blooming delight. It quietly whispers to passers by to take a moment of stillness and observe the wonder.
A meandering path through the heart of the garden calls to children and adults alike - wander through and immerse yourself nature. Take a step into a whimsical world and transport yourself into an abundant paradise.
As is the nature of seasons, Super Bloom at The Convent is forever shifting and changing. Blooms come and go, animals frolic through the blooms and trample paths in the dead of the night, flowers are picked by eager passers-by.
It is these imperfections and complexities that bring the depth and power. The tapestry of human interaction with nature is rich and layered, just like the garden.
Planted from seed by the team at Super Bloom and students at Melbourne Polytechnic, the meadow is ever changing and evolving. Planting a seed in an act of hope, and those involved in the project dreamed of a future of possibility. The wonder of the planting is now realised, with visitors able to soak up the seeds that were sewn and enjoy the dramatic floral display in all its glory.
Super Bloom at The Convent showcases the abundance that can be achieved with minimal resources. The meadow represents hope, not only for our urban environments and the potential they hold - but also in what can be achieved when dreamers and plant schemers meet - a field of possibilities. Small scale need not mean small impact.
