Artist Raku Inoue Creates Unique Floral Art with Fresh Blooms and Leaves.
Flowers have long been a staple in the art world, often serving as subjects in paintings or symbols of beauty. However, artist Raku Inoue has taken a different approach by using flowers and leaves as the actual materials for his artwork. Instead of simply painting a bouquet, Inoue crafts intricate designs using natural elements, recreating famous pop culture characters. His work blends the enduring appeal of these characters with the fleeting beauty of flowers.
Inoue’s venture into floral art began on a rainy day. “I was watching the rain through the dining room window when I saw our rose bush being battered by strong winds,” Inoue recalls in an interview with My Modern Met. “I noticed the delicate rose petals falling to the ground, and it felt like such a waste of these beautiful roses. So, I went outside, gathered the petals, and brought them inside. I have a creative mind, so I immediately thought of making something with them.” Although nature has always influenced his art, this moment marked a turning point in his focus on floral art.
Despite the time and effort he invests, Inoue’s flower art is inherently temporary. While he has experimented with dehydrated flowers, he finds working with fresh blooms more meaningful. “I tend to hold onto things, so letting go isn’t easy for me,” he admits. “Creating art that won’t last reminds me that not everything is meant to be permanent, especially in nature. There’s beauty in letting go sometimes.”
Before turning to floral art, Inoue was known for his polymer clay sculptures, a skill that still influences his work. “Working with polymer clay taught me to think in three dimensions,” he explains. “When creating something in 3D, you have to consider height, width, and depth, as well as how light and shadow interact with the piece. This understanding helps me place objects within space more effectively.”
Inoue’s creative process varies. Sometimes he starts with a character in mind and searches for the right plants, while other times, a unique leaf or bloom inspires him. “There are days when I spend hours searching for the perfect plant without success,” he says. “I know inspiration can strike at any time, but it’s often elusive when I’m actively searching. The best I can do is keep an open mind so that I’m ready to seize opportunities when they arise.”
Most of the plants Inoue uses are foraged near his home in Montreal or purchased from local flower shops. His work is also influenced by the changing seasons, as many plants are only available for a short time each year. “This adds to the preciousness of the materials,” he notes. “Every year, I look forward to certain flowers blooming and the leaves turning red in autumn. Each season has something special to offer, and those who appreciate even the smallest details can see all of its beauty.”