NC Museum of Art fundraiser connects Wolfpack and greater Raleigh community

Madison Ligh Staff Writer

Art in Bloom is an annual fundraiser at the North Carolina Museum of Art, where floral designers are able to showcase their interpretations of the museum’s art. The arrangements were showcased to thousands of attendees from March 15-19.

One attendee, Laurie Elliott, is an NC State alum who graduated in 1991 with a degree in English. After her instructor at NC State brought her class to the event, Elliott has attended each year.

“My world history teacher, Dr. Knowles, at the end of the semester took us here,” Elliott said. “He showed us how each piece mirrored each period that was studied in literature. It was absolutely the best.”

Elliott said she and 10 friends come every year to enjoy the event for her birthday.

“It’s absolutely the most wonderful [thing],” Elliott said. “I feel like it’s a treat for the senses. Because you smell it, you see it, and we also get the fellowship.”

Among the event’s attendees, various florists were also present to discuss their pieces. Designer Diane Makgill created a piece that was inspired by a 4,000-year-old ancient Egyptian broad collar. As a former North Carolina Museum of Art docent, Makgill described her career at the museum and participation in the event.

“I was a docent, which is a fancy word for tour guide, for 15 years,” Makgill said. “And this is my fourth time in Art in Bloom. So