The Weed Show: Celebrating the Beauty of Desert Weeds
The Unique Flower Show Where Weeds Are the Stars
In the small desert town of Twentynine Palms, California, there’s a unique flower show that celebrates the beauty of weeds. The Twentynine Palms Weed Show, now in its 75th year, is a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of the town’s residents.
Origins of the Weed Show
The Weed Show was born in the 1930s when wives of World War I veterans suffering from heart and lung ailments arrived in Twentynine Palms. The area’s moderate elevation and clean, dry air were beneficial for their health, but the rugged landscape lacked the amenities of civilized society.
In an effort to retain some semblance of culture, the ladies formed the Women’s Club of 29 Palms and organized a monthly speaker series. In 1940, they hosted acclaimed etching artist Mildred Bryant Brooks. Since it was July and fresh flowers were scarce, the ladies apologized for not having any to greet her.
Legend has it that Brooks replied, “But why do you need fresh flowers when you have so many beautiful weeds?” And with that, the Weed Show was born.
Artistic Compositions from Dried Vegetation
The Weed Show is like a traditional flower show, but instead of roses or orchids, participants create artistic compositions from dried vegetation. They can enter their creations in 12 different categories, including one for fresh weeds.
Competitors use a variety of natural materials found in the desert, such as dried plants, weathered roof shingles, broken glass, and rusted cans. They accessorize their compositions with rusty tools, rotting wood, and other found objects.
Rules and Regulations
While the Weed Show encourages creativity, there are a few rules that participants must follow. For instance, animals and animal parts are prohibited, as are poisonous plants like datura. Additionally, only natural adhesives, such as mud, sap, and clay, can be used to hold entries together.
Preparation and Competition
Serious competitors attend the Weed Show Workshop held a month before the main event. They trade tips and tricks and make sure their ideas adhere to the show’s rules. The workshop also provides an opportunity to learn from experienced “weeders.”
In the days leading up to the show, participants work tirelessly to perfect their entries. They gather materials, arrange them into artistic compositions, and ensure that they meet all the requirements.
Celebrating Survival
The Weed Show is more than just a competition. It’s a celebration of the desert’s unique beauty and the resilience of its inhabitants. In a landscape where survival is a constant challenge, the Weed Show pays homage to the things that endure.
As Pat Rimmington, one of the show’s organizers, says, “The Weed Show is just like the desert. You don’t see anything special until you start looking for it.”
Details of the 2023 Weed Show
The 2023 Weed Show will be held on November 7th and 8th at the Old Schoolhouse Museum in Twentynine Palms, California. The show is free and open to the public from 12 to 4 p.m. on November 7th and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on November 8th.