Outline of Pearsons School of Floristry In-House Competition
Theme: The Art of Monochrome
Background
Pearsons School of Floristry is seeking an original floral design that celebrates the beauty, sophistication and creative potential of a monochromatic colour palette. The winning design will be showcased during the Pearsons Enrichment Night, where it will be viewed by students, alumni, and industry guests. This competition challenges designers to demonstrate how a single colour can create depth, emotion, texture and visual impact through thoughtful flower selection, composition and technique.
The Brief
Design and create a contemporary floral arrangement in a vessel that explores the concept of monochrome. Your design should utilise tones and hues of your chosen colour, and demonstrate how varying tones, tints, shades, textures and flower forms can work together to create a cohesive and visually engaging composition. Designers are encouraged to interpret the theme creatively while maintaining a clear monochromatic direction.
Design Objectives
Your design should:
- Showcase technical floristry skills and attention to detail
- Demonstrate a strong understanding of colour and design principles
- Explore texture, form, balance and proportion
- Create visual interest while remaining within a single colour palette
- Deliver a memorable and impactful presentation
- Reflect your individual design style and creative voice
Design Parameters
- One floral design per entrant
- Fresh flowers must be the dominant design medium
- Design must be created in a vessel
- The design will be displayed on a plinth measuring 35cm x 35cm
- The footprint of the design should not exceed 30cm x 30cm
- Height is open and may be determined by the designer
- Maximum flower budget: $100 wholesale value
- Students are responsible for sourcing all flowers and materials
- Designs must be transportable and suitable for display
- Foam-free mechanics are encouraged
Design Statement
All entrants must submit a Design Statement of no more than 100 words. The statement should outline:
- Your chosen colour palette
- Your inspiration and concept
- Key flowers, foliage and materials used
- How your design responds to the brief
In addition, entrants are required to provide both wholesale and retail costings for their design.
Submission
Completed designs must be delivered to Pearsons School of Floristry on Monday 19 October 2026 between 9:00am and 4:00pm.
Judging will commence at 5:00pm. All competition entries will be displayed during the Pearsons Enrichment Night, providing an opportunity for students, alumni and industry guests to view and celebrate the work of all entrants. Competition winners will be announced at 8:00pm.
Judging Criteria
Technical Skill – 20%
Design & Creativity – 20%
Use of Materials – 20%
Adherence to Brief – 20%
Overall Impact & Presentation – 20%
Awards
First Place – $1,000 Visa Gift Card
Creative Excellence Award – $200 APACK voucher
Technical Excellence Award – $200 Koch & Co voucher
Student Choice Award – $100 Visa Gift Card
We encourage you to challenge yourself, take creative risks and explore the possibilities of colour through floral design.
Good luck and enjoy the creative process.
