The Brunnier will be blooming March 25-27

bloom

Contributed photo.

Signs of spring are beginning to appear, but the season will be well underway at the Brunnier Art Museum during the eighth annual "Brunnier in Bloom" exhibition, March 25-27. The event is free and open to the public.

The event features floral designs created by central Iowa florists, garden club members and Iowa State horticulture students that complement pieces from the museum's art collection.  

The show opens Friday, March 25, with a Flowers After Hours reception (6-8 p.m.).  Visitors will hear live music by the Britches and Hose Ukulele Club, mingle with the floral artists and vote for the People's Choice award. A cash bar also will be available.

Award-winning entries will be announced Friday evening. This year's judges are Ann-Marie Fiore, professor, apparel, events and hospitality management; Michael Morain, Des Moines Register features reporter; Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, Ames city council member and operations manager at Wheatsfield Cooperative; and Megan Gilbert, ISU junior, Iowa State Daily arts reporter.

The exhibition continues Saturday and Sunday with the Weekend Showcase (11 a.m.-4 p.m., both days). Bring the kids and let them work on crafts while you browse the floral displays. Raffle tickets for prizes from Raygun, Portobello Road, Reiman Gardens, Massage Heights, the Iowa State Center and more will be available for purchase throughout the weekend. Proceeds will benefit University Museums' educational programming. Visitors also will receive half-price admission passes to Reiman Gardens, good March 25-27.