Year of Publication
2025
College
Undergraduate Education
Department
Art and Visual Studies
Abstract
This research explores colorful plants as a medium for integrating traditional art with distinct artistic forms, principles, and structures into garden design. The central goal is to demonstrate how the combination of sculpture and curated plantings can be used in creating outdoor gardens that connect people to nature through the use of art and immersion. When used with intention these elements forster transformative experiences. To understand the psychological aspects of color in nature, the literature review summarizes scientific studies that define color as a visual language, describes how color impacts the mind, and the complexity of color in gardens. An analysis of the films Perfect Days and Alice in Wonderland examines how different people experience plants and color in their lives. Observational case studies done at The Grounds for Sculpture and New York Botanical Garden are the inspiration for creating a feasible concept design. The research culminates with the creation of a conceptual design for the University of Kentucky Arboretum Horticulture Display Garden, including a sculpture
Recommended Citation
Murphy, Timihia, "PRISMATIC FLORA: How Plant Color and Art Can Influence Positive Emotions" (2025). Gaines Fellow Senior Theses. 38.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/gaines_theses/38
