There's always a story behind the story. As devoted as some are to their gardens—an art form of composition in its own right—the community of botanical artists worldwide brings added glimmer to the beauty of the flower.

Blossom II, the sequel to an amazing and successful touring exhbition created by the Susan K. Black Foundation, exists to celebrate botanical portrayals. So here's the story behind the story:  Susan Kathleen Black was an adventurous taveler, pollinator of joy among a large group of friends, and a proud working artist.  After she died too young, her husband wanted to launch something that would remember her by perpetuating her spirit.

The Blossom Art Competition is destined to touch millions. It's called the world's best fine art exhibition of flowers."  First launched in 2007, it became a sensation and attracted entries from botanical artists around the globe.  With the help of tour director/curator David J. Wagner, whose imprint on traveling art events seems prolific these days, the impact of Blossom rolls on and is headed toward a third installment in the years ahead. During the coming months, here are the exhibition sites for Blossom II.

R.W. Norton Art Gallery, Shreveport, LA: July 12 - October 16, 2011

Garfield Park Conservatory, Chicago, IL: November 5 - December 31, 2011
      
Art Center Manatee, Bradenton, FL:  Jan. 18 - Feb. 29, 2012  
    
Greenacres Arts Center, Cincinnati, OH: March 19 - May 20, 2012   
  
Museum of the Gulf Coast, Port Arthur, TX: June 10 – July 22, 2012      

If you can't make it to one of those venues, here's a short video highlighting some of the award winners.