The RHS Chelsea Flower Show, held in the Royal Hospital Chelsea's gardens, has lifted its long-standing ban on garden gnomes for the second time since 1927. The event, which draws over 150,000 attendees to explore innovative garden designs and horticultural art, will also see an auction of gnomes painted by celebrities.
Gnomes Return for Charity
Gnomes, traditionally banned from the Chelsea Flower Show, are making a rare appearance as part of a fundraiser for the RHS school gardening campaign. Painted by celebrities including Cate Blanchett, Dame Mary Berry, and Sir Brian May, these gnomes are up for auction. As of now, Berry's gnome has attracted a $900 bid, May's $3,000, and Blanchett's $400. The auction concludes on May 24.
Celebrity Gnome Artists
RHS director general Clare Matterson stated, "We want people to be playful with their gardening, which is why we're lifting the gnome ban for these celebrity gnomes." Comedian Bill Bailey, another celebrity gnome artist, highlighted the historical role of gnomes as garden guardians against malign spirits, derived from the Latin 'gnomus', meaning "earth dweller."
Gnomes in the Spotlight
At the Chelsea Flower Show, gnomes crafted for Sir David Beckham and King Charles III are displayed alongside creations by Frances Tophill and Alan Titchmarsh. Cate Blanchett's gnome, with its vibrant colors, reflects her personal style and love for color and texture. Her gnome, like others, enjoys the spotlight, sipping Pimm's and mingling with visitors and potential bidders.
Floral Extravaganza
Beyond the gnome excitement, the Chelsea Flower Show features a free flower festival with an "Out of this World" theme, showcasing creations like a Saturn made from ranunculus and a four-meter floral dragon. Inside the show, Sarah Eberle's garden, developed for the Campaign to Protect Rural England, won best in show.
As the show progresses, gnomes continue to charm visitors and potential buyers, embodying the playful spirit encouraged by the RHS. The auction offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of this limited appearance, with the proceeds supporting educational gardening initiatives.
Source: https://www.vogue.com/article/chelsea-flower-show-london-gnome-ban-lifted
