Romania’s remarkable heritage of wildflowers

Marie of Romania, Artist Queen. A Floral Conversation

The first in our series of talks accompanying the exhibition “Marie of Romania, Artist Queen”, currently on view at The King’s Foundation Garrison Chapel Gallery, took place last week in the presence of an enthusiastic audience.

Our inaugural guest speaker was the esteemed botanist Dr. John Akeroyd, one of the most passionate connoisseurs and champions of Romania’s extraordinary biodiversity. In a captivating talk introduced by RCI London director Aura Woodward, Dr. Akeroyd explored the wildflower meadows of Transylvania, highlighting species immortalised in Queen Marie’s delicate watercolours. He also drew fascinating connections between Queen Marie’s artistic and botanical legacy and HRH King Charles’s enduring love for Romania’s natural splendour.

Many thanks to everyone who joined us and contributed to such a warm and inspiring evening. We look forward to welcoming you to the next talk in this special series, delivered by Dr. Shona Kallestrup on 3 October.

Photographs by Alex Coman