For those looking for a new, different kind of art gallery experience, the Columbus Museum of Art has an event that’ll grow on you.

The eleventh annual Art in Bloom gallery opens on April 19 and runs until April 22. The exhibit, which is coordinated by Beaux Arts, features local artists’ floral interpretations of over 60 pieces of art from the museum’s permanent collection.

“It adds a whole new dimension to the artwork,” says Bertie Gutter, publicity chairperson for Beaux Arts. "You see the art, and then you see it with the floral presentation. It brings new life to (the artwork).”

The florists are chosen months in advance, and given certain ground rules as to what can and cannot be in their presentation. There are limits on how much water can be brought into the museum, and the floral pieces cannot obstruct the original art in any way. They are also thoroughly inspected to make sure there are no pests being introduced to any of the museum’s artwork.

In addition to the artwork, acclaimed designer Thomas Horst will be showing off some of his fashions following a luncheon on Friday. The Kent State alum is considered one of the top felters in the world, and this is the first time Horst’s work will be modeled on the runway. The Paris-style show will present more than 60 of his fashions in dresses, jackets and vests, and will have a floral theme.

Sunday will feature the first family day in association with Arts in Bloom. Merilee Mostov, educator for family programs, will be helping children create sculptures made out of cloth that they can take home.

“It’s an opportunity for children to come in and create,” says Gutter. “(Mostov) doesn’t just get markers and say, ‘color.’”

The event kicks off on Thursday night at 6 p.m. with a champagne gala. Tickets to the gala cost $65. Friday’s luncheon starts at 11:30 a.m. and is sold out. Saturday afternoon at 1 p.m. Gary Ross will present on making gardens permanent. Tickets are $40 for the Ross presentation. Sunday’s family day is free and runs from 1-4 p.m.

Admission to the gallery is $6 for adults, $4 for seniors and students, and free for children 5 and under. All proceeds benefit the museum’s children education programs.

For more information, call the Columbus Museum of Art at 614-221-6801 or visit www.columbusmuseum.org.