Artistic Bloom: Cj Hendry’s Plush Floral Exhibit Transforms Roosevelt Island.
Roosevelt Island, NY — “Rose is a rose is a rose is a rose,” wrote Gertrude Stein, but what if a rose could defy expectations? At Cj Hendry’s Flower Market on Roosevelt Island, this is exactly what happens. The stunning red roses on display are not only thornless and scentless but also feature a fuzzy texture instead of the usual smooth surface.
This innovative floral exhibit, featuring plush roses, peonies, sunflowers, lilies, and other blooms, is open to the public this weekend, from September 13 to 15, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Admission is free, and visitors can even take home a complimentary plush flower. Advance registration is required and can be completed here.
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Hendry, a contemporary artist, has transformed a large white tent into a vibrant floral meadow, showcasing an impressive 100,000 plush flowers. The exhibit is situated in Four Freedoms Park at the southern end of Roosevelt Island and is presented in collaboration with beauty brand Clé de Peau Beauté. The plush flowers draw inspiration from the botanicals used in Clé de Peau Beauté’s products, particularly the radiant lily featured in The Serum. Each visitor can receive a free flower along with a bottle of Clé de Peau Beauté’s The Serum.
The exhibit also includes a dozen original drawings by Hendry and a bouquet inspired by the Roosevelt family. This includes the yellow Eleanor Roosevelt Rose, tulips representing the family’s Dutch heritage, red roses symbolizing the “Roosevelt” name, and peonies, the signature flower of the Roosevelt farm.
Visitors are invited to explore the enchanting flower field, which feels particularly magical on sunny days expected this weekend. The realism of the flowers is so convincing that one might need to touch them to realize they are made of plush. In addition to choosing one free flower to take home, guests can purchase additional flowers for $5 each. Martha Stewart was spotted at a preview event selecting a bouquet, adding to the exhibit’s charm.
Hendry reflects on her work, stating, “When architect Louis Kahn designed this memorial, he mentioned, ‘The garden is somehow a personal kind of control of nature.’ Much of my work, particularly in this exhibit, involves manipulating environments to create spaces that transport participants beyond their everyday experiences. I hope Flower Market inspires joy and beauty, whether in a greenhouse or in our daily encounters with flowers—plush or otherwise.”
Known for her ability to evoke joy and beauty, Hendry has previously enriched New York City with her art. Earlier this year, her Pink Chairs made an impact in Prospect Park, and last year, her PLAIDground, an adult playground, delighted visitors in Brooklyn.