The society’s 61st conference was held at the Marlborough Events Centre in Blenheim from April 30 to May 2 and showcased top designers, exhibitions and workshops, bringing together enthusiasts to celebrate floral artistry.
The FASNZ South Canterbury area covers the Geraldine, North Otago, Temuka/Clandeboye, Timaru and Waimate floral art groups.
North Otago Floral Art Society member Barbara Watt was "very surprised" to win the Premier Design Award out of 500 entries.
"It only ever happens to other people, not me," she said.
Floral Art Society life member and past president Liz Chapman, who presented Mrs Watt with the award, said her winning artwork was a "wonderful design".
"It was very innovative and original, which is always something the selection committee is looking for when they are selecting designs to go in our diary. It was very exciting. We were thrilled for her," she said.
Mrs Watt’s original floral art work will be featured on the cover of the society’s annual diary next year.
Mrs Chapman said more than 500 designs were submitted from floral art members around the country and only 54 of those were selected for "special awards", including Mrs Watt.
It was also recognition for the North Otago Floral Art Society where Mrs Watt had received numerous placings and wins over the years in the society’s annual competitions, she said.
"It’s great for the club, too — she has given a lot to the club over the years."
Mrs Watt, who has had a life-long love of flowers, said her pressed flower design May Queen was inspired by her mother.
"My mother always took flowers to people and she had a lovely garden, and I love my garden."
Mrs Watt said some of her personal favourite flowers were pansies, roses, sweet peas and leucadendrons.
