Brussels' Grand-Place recently hosted its biennial Flower Carpet, a magnificent artistic spectacle transforming the historic square into a vibrant floral masterpiece. The 24th edition of this cherished event honored 160 years of diplomatic relations between Belgium and Japan. Japanese artist Hiro Sugiyama conceptualized the impressive design, titling it 'Neo Hokusai,' as a homage to the legendary ukiyo-e master Katsushika Hokusai, particularly his iconic work 'The Great Wave Off Kanagawa.' This temporary installation, spanning nearly 14,000 square feet, utilized an astounding 750,000 fresh dahlias, creating a breathtaking tapestry of colors and patterns.
From August 13 to 16, this monumental floral display became the centerpiece of the Belgian capital, captivating thousands of visitors. The 'Neo Hokusai' design meticulously reinterpreted Hokusai's famous woodblock print, 'The Great Wave Off Kanagawa,' a part of his renowned series 'Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji' from 1830-1832. Vibrant shades of magenta, vermilion, and yellow dominated the composition, with flowers covering approximately 80% of the entire intricate layout. Ornate patterns framed the central wave motif, adding depth and elegance to the colossal artwork.
The Flower Carpet tradition is a testament to the city's dedication to art, community engagement, and international diplomacy. While dahlias were the primary choice for this year's voluminous blossoms, other editions have featured different species. For instance, the 2018 installation, celebrating the Mexican region of Guanajuato, was crafted from one million begonias, a creation beautifully documented in an aerial timelapse by Joerg Daiber.
The dahlias for this year's 'Neo Hokusai' design were specially sourced through a collaboration with Bloemencorso Loenhout. This organization is renowned for its giant flower parade, an annual tradition that has been delighting audiences for three-quarters of a century in the northern city of Loenhout. This partnership ensures the freshness and quality of the flowers, contributing to the overall splendor of the Grand-Place's ephemeral artwork. The Bloemencorso Loenhout event itself is scheduled to commence on September 12, continuing its long-standing legacy of floral artistry.
This grand display in Brussels transcends mere horticulture; it is a profound cultural expression. Each edition brings a fresh theme, transforming the historic Grand-Place into an open-air gallery. The careful selection of flowers, the collaborative efforts of numerous volunteers, and the innovative artistic direction converge to create a truly unforgettable experience, solidifying Brussels' reputation as a hub for artistic innovation and international camaraderie.