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Philadelphia Flower Show showcases Drexel Hill woman's work

Amongst the sights of imaginative landscapes and the scents of flowering hyacinths, a pair of hands gently offers visitors a rainbow of blooms at the Philadelphia Flower Show “Rooted: Origins of American Gardening” now until Sunday at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. 

Designed by Tanesha Sample, of Tissa Rose Floral in Drexel Hill, IKECHI is a bridge between history and the present. Plans for the Sample’s exhibit took months to create, as she curated the color palette and materials needed to bring her creative vision to life.

“IKECHI captures the resilience of the Africans and African Americans that tilled the land. Featuring cotton, it highlights the fact that they were more than crop harvesters, they cultivated the crops and gardens for both functional and expressive purposes,” explained Sample. “A hand structure that will be holding a garden as if it were ripped from the ground. The hand will have an African American skin tone to represent history, rooted in African American contributions to gardening and agriculture. It's also linked to my representation of the biblical creation story, which my life and passion for floral design are rooted.”

Through immersive garden exhibits and floral displays, “Rooted,” showcases the personal stories, cultural traditions and horticultural inspiration that connects us to plants and each other.

“The reactions have been deeply emotional. Many visitors have told me they felt a sense of reverence standing in front of the piece. Some connect strongly with the biblical imagery of creation, while others resonate with the symbolism of the hands, recognizing the importance of mentors, ancestors, and community in their own lives. I've also heard from guests who were moved by the representation of African American hands in such a central, uplifting role. That acknowledgment of history and contribution has sparked meaningful conversations throughout the show,” she said.

Earning a bronze medal for her exhibit, Sample said she’s happy to see her design resonate with visitors.

“The biggest reward are compliments and messages I receive about the emotional impact our Flower Show designs have had on the PHS members and show attendees. Every year I look forward to bringing something opulent to the thousands of people who look forward to what we create,” she said.

If you go: The Philadelphia Flower Show’s “Rooted: Origins of American Gardening” runs until this Sunday at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.  


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