Organized by the Friends of the Institute, this highly anticipated event showcases the talents of more than 170 floral artists, whose spectacular floral arrangements interpret works of art in the museum's collection. In addition, professional florists provide lavish displays outside the galleries. General admission is free.

The Friends Children's Fund will be the beneficiary of this year's event. This recently established fund provides enriching opportunities for young people to experience and be inspired by the world of art. Priority is given to projects that develop critical thinking skills, bring children to the museum, reach underserved children and communities, and broaden museum programming for children. Over the past twenty-five years, Art in Bloom has raised more than 2.3 million dollars, enabling the Friends to support museum education programs and special projects, purchase art works, fund docent programs, and sponsor special exhibitions. Most recently, Friends funds were used to purchase an important pastel by Elisabeth Louise Vigée-LeBrun and to co-sponsor the Georgia O'Keefe Exhibit.

Art in Bloom kicks off this year's special four-day festival with a Gala Preview Party on Wednesday, April 30. From Thursday, May 1, through Sunday, May 4, more than 170 exquisite floral arrangements created by individual and garden-club floral artists will fill the museum with color. These arrangements will be shown alongside the masterworks that inspired them. Lectures, demonstrations, luncheons, events, and the Garden & Gift Shop are also offered throughout the weekend.

Thursday's highlights include a lecture by Derek Fell, "The Magic of Monet's Garden," at 10 a.m., Carol Fell's demonstration "Floral Design Inspired by the French Impressionists" at 2 p.m. On Friday, Nico De Swert presents his demonstration "Birth of Spring." The museum will extend its hours and remain open until 9 p.m. on Friday evening. Saturday includes Ron Morgan's lecture, "In the Company of Flowers," and a French-themed family event will take place in the afternoon. Lectures and demonstrations are ticketed events. Reservations recommended. -- www.artsmia.org