The Iris Idea
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Instagram @TheIrisIdea
For the remainder of 2024, I will be creating 102 larger-than-life irises. Each sculpture will be constructed from recycled plastic, painted, and thermoformed into an iris. A volunteer caretaker will foster each iris during the creation phase, and in the spring of 2025, all irises and their caretakers will reunite for their debut. This is The Iris Idea.
The Iris Idea was born from several factors. The passing of a design icon, Iris Apfel, at the age of 102, the grief I still feel from the passing of my mom in 2019, and the loss of my little girl self. This idea is to remind myself of the joy that these three humans have brought to me and many others. I know that this Joy is still available, but it will take work to achieve. I believe that through this project, by honoring Iris, my mom, and myself that I will find Joy.
Iris Apfel
design icon
Ngon Winters
my mom
Snow Winters
Girl Scout me, top right
In 2022 I had an exhibit titled "The Art of Joy", this is what I have learned from creating that series of paintings:
"Finding joy takes work. There is an art to navigating the turmoil and the mounds of negativity that swirl around us. We have to find the balance, notice the nuances, and remember what brings us joy. "
The Iris Idea goals:
Create 102 larger than life irises and debut all of them in the spring of 2025.
Create a network of caretakers that will foster an iris during the creation phase.
Bring all caretakers and their irises together for their debut and to celebrate the Joy we have all achieved.
About the irises
Each iris roughly measures 9” x 9” and is constructed from a one gallon plastic water jug. The petals are cut, painted with alcohol inks, thermoformed, and assembled into an iris. Now this former container has entered into it's butterfly stage.
Individual irises take a few days to make, and I anticipate completing three a week. Each one will be colorfully painted, inspired by real irises but also by whatever brings me joy.
Visit the Iris Gallery to see currently fostered irises.
4/22/24 I am overjoyed by how many volunteer caretakers I have had. Join the que and I'll make an iris for you too.
Becoming a caretaker
Anyone can be a caretaker. I encourage you to participate if you like flowers, art, community, or need a little help finding joy. Your only responsibility during foster care is to remember what brings joy to you. I do encourage you to share images of your iris and stories on social media (Instagram @TheIrisIdea). I want us all to foster the Art of Joy.
At the end of The Iris Idea project, all caretakers and their iris will reunite for their debut in the spring of 2025. This culmination of irises and caretakers will be a celebration in recognition of everyone's contribution, the completion of The Iris Idea 2025, and the Joy we have all worked hard for. And as a thank you, each caretaker will become the permanent owner of their iris.
I will notify all caretakers by the end of 2024 of the details of the spring 2025 debut.
If this sounds like you, then fill out the Caretaker Form.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many irises can I care for?
I suggest that each caretaker choose no more than three irises. A Caretaker Form will need to be filled out for each iris. My goal is to share this work with many others.
What if there are no irises available now? Can I reserve a future iris?
Yes, you can! Fill out the Caretaker Form and indicate the iris number that you want to reserve.
How will I get an iris once I've filled out the caretaker form?
If you are in the Northwest Arkansas area, I will deliver an iris; if you are outside of NWA in the U.S., then an iris can be mailed. I just ask that you cover shipping ($50 USD for delivery to you, to the debut, and then back to you). For caretakers outside the U.S., let’s talk.
What if, in my care, an iris becomes damaged?
I’ll fix it before the exhibit; just document with photos and some text about the damage so I know what will be required before the debut. Email me the info and I'll coordinate the repair plan. There's no need to share how it got damaged unless it’s a great story that you want to share!
Where will The Iris Idea make its debut?
I don’t have a specific place yet, so if you have a venue that would like to participate, please email me. I am open to various venues, but I need a place that 102 irises can be displayed and caretakers can celebrate. I will notify all caretakers by the end of 2024 of the details of the spring 2025 debut.
When will The Iris Idea make its debut?
My goal will be to exhibit spring 2025. I will notify all caretakers by the end of 2024 of the details of the spring 2025 debut.
Can I just purchase an iris?
You can; art is my livelihood, so I do need to make some bank. They are $100 USD each, and that includes shipping in the U.S. (for orders outside the U.S., I will estimate a shipping cost). Fill out the Caretaker Form, and an invoice will be emailed to you.
What plastic are you using, and do you need more?
I am using number 1 and 2 plastic water jugs and will post on www.instagram.com/TheIrisIdea and Facebook @SnowWintersDesigns when I need some and what shape I need. I currently have a steady supply.
Who can I tag on Instagram, and what hashtags should I use?
Tag or invite as a collaborator The Iris Idea on Instagram @TheIrisIdea #TheIrisIdea #TheIrisIdea2025 #TheArtOfJoy #IrisJoy
Can an iris be dedicated to someone?
Yes, an iris can be named in their honor. In the Caretaker Form, specify who will be the caretaker and who will be honored.
Can I help in other ways besides becoming a caretaker?
Yes, The Iris Idea is currently self-funded, and donations would be greatly appreciated to help complete this community art project. Donations can be made securely through PayPal, regardless of whether you have a PayPal account or not.