You could describe Benjamin Avery aka @thecolourblindflorist as quite unconventional; being a florist doesn’t seem like the most obvious career choice for someone who is colour blind. However, whilst Ben hasn’t been able to rely on colour to inform his work, he instead favours the floral form, enabling him to produce the most exquisitely textural and unique sculptural arrangements.
We were first introduced to Ben through a mutual long-time friend Megan Morton who we had engaged to style our stunning Edgecliff Road photoshoot. Ben created whimsical arrangements of hydrangeas of various heights and draped greenery of an almost other-worldly beauty, neither that would look out of place in a Dr Suess story book. Each fantasy-like floral form elevated the serene spaces by injecting just the right amount of theatical texture that perfectly complimented our timeless interiors.
Photoshoot days are some of the most rewarding for us, signifying the cherry on the top of a delicious project where years of planning and creating comes together in these pivotal moments. Although lots of fun, the planning can be stressful, the day itself busy, the hours focused and long. Ben’s easy going nature was a breath of fresh air on site. Witnessing him create his signature sculptural style was a pure delight.
Ben’s editorial-esque instagram looks part eclectic vegan menu featuring floral forms good enough to eat, and part fantasy dream land filled with unidentified creatures from undiscovered seascapes. We could not turn a blind eye to this intriguing man without finding out more about the artist behind Sydney’s most sexy, scented sculptures.
Which three words best describe you?
Adventurous, unconventional, colourblind.
What did you want to be growing up?
A volcanologist and study volcanos! Funnily enough mountains and volcanic regions do inspire a lot of the work I make today. So in some way I have found a method to study the geological landscape.
Colour is so synonymous with flowers. What then drew you to the colourful world of florals?
Growing away from any big cities I was always spending time in and around nature. This forested a love of the natural world both terrestrial and submarine. For me its not really about colour, but more about form and texture. So what drew me to florals as a medium is that I am able to wield it to replicate natural habitats and environments and juxtapose them with a contemporary setting.
What did you do to earn your first pay packet?
As COLOURBLIND (starting in 2020 mid-COVID!) my first commission was an advertising campaign, composing four different seasons across the shoot.
What's your proudest achievement?
Climbing the three tallest mountains across England, Scotland and Wales in under 24 hours.
Who inspires you?
It’s not really who, but rather a case of what, inspires me. Generally I’m inspired by the natural world (including underwater landscapes and rock forms), haute couture fashion, experimental architecture and terrestrial landscapes.
What is your biggest vice?
I will not hesitate to buy rare orchids. Orchids and coffee.
Did you ever feel your colour blindness might prevent you from living your dream as a florist?
Absolutely not. I would be composing whether it be with botanicals or with paint. Florals are the medium the I think best reflects the work at the moment.
What are some of the challenges your colour blindness has presented in your professional life, if any?
I guess the only time I feel challenged is when I have to describe colours back to someone. I will generally just compose what I think goes together in my eyes. Don’t ask me what colours they are though HA HA!
DO YOU FOLLOW TRENDS OR ARE YOU A TRENDSETTER?
I prefer not to think about trends or trendsetting as I pull inspiration from a place of natural beauty and movement within the seasons. Luckily the Australian market is hungry for unconventional beauty and the unexpected.
What's the best life lesson you have learnt along the way?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
What dream do you still want to fulfill?
Umm that’s a long list! But, if I had to say one, getting the chance to do flowers at MONA in Hobart would be incredible. Along with any event work in New Zealand or Greece (call me!).
What is one tip you could give to encourage someone to step outside of their colour comfort zone when attempting to create their own ‘colour blind-style’ arrangements at home?
I would say don’t be scared of clashing contrasts. Don’t play it safe. If in doubt always buy orange! :)
What do you love most about working with AKD?
AKD have a very bespoke and detail-orientated design process similar to my own work. The team are also incredibly easy to work with which makes a huge difference when teeing up a shoot or organising logistics. I absolutely love working within their beautifully finished spaces.