English artist Sophie Mess (ig) says that this variety of dahlia “represent[s] wealth, change and creativity, a fitting symbol for the [Ballymena] area’s history: rich farmland and mineral deposits meant the town was turned into a prosperous market town” (press-release from Mid- And East-Antrim council, which sponsored the work). Purple dahlias are also said to symbolise “grace, beauty, dignity, kindness” (Saffron Marigold) or royalty (Bouq’s). So, whatever you want, really.
Mess also painted flowers in Belfast for HTN 2022.
Wellington Court, Ballymena.
Click image to enlarge
Copyright © 2024 Paddy Duffy
T03912c T03908 [T03907]
Paddy Duffy Collection 