The Barbie doll has inspired little girls for decades. Barbie has
been on or near the top of the most popular toy lists for a very
long time. Children are inspired by her pretty face and the
versatility of her character-Barbie can be anything! A doctor, a
model, a mother, a teacher, a veterinarian, or a mermaid. It's no
wonder that with her beauty and versatility, she's even been a
flower; four of them, to be exact.
In 2001 and 2002 a collector's series of Barbie dolls was
inspired by the beauty of flowers. In the series, Barbie was
dressed in gowns resembling the blooms of some of the world's
favorite flowers. The four dolls in the set included, The Rose
Barbie, The Orchid Barbie, The Calla Lily Barbie, and The Iris
Barbie.
Flowers have not only inspired the artists who design Barbie,
they've inspired numerous artists in all mediums throughout the
ages. Poets have expounded on their beauty and painters have
created incredible works of art featuring flowers. In fact,
some of the most famous paintings in the world are of flowers.
For example, Van Gogh's Sunflowers painting and the numerous
paintings by Georgia O'Keefe, which typically show only a close
up view of a flower blossom.
Flowers don't just inspire artists, they have a similar effect on
all who come in contact with them. In fact, a study has proven
that flowers have a powerful effect on people in an office
setting. The study took place at A&M University and showed that
flowers are capable of increasing the output and creativity of
employees who are exposed to them. The study was performed in
three environments: a workplace with flowers and plants, one with
sculptures, and one with no decorations. At the conclusion of the
study, data showed that both male and female participants were
more innovative, increased the number of ideas they had, and came
up with more inventive solutions to problems. In fact, among men
alone, ideas increased by 15%.
Another study showed that the appeal of flowers doesn't wane even
as we age. A study conducted by Rutgers University, the State
University of New Jersey, indicated that flowers can help senior
citizens reduce depression, improve memory, and help them connect
with other people.
Inspire someone today-call your florist to order flowers. Your
gift of flowers can make your loved one's day a little brighter
and, who knows, you might even inspire the next great work of
art!
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