Beginnings The 5 foot tall fibreglass tulip arrived in a lovely shade of flat grey primer. This is the first stage in development of "Funky Coolip".

Leaves Green leaves are covered with bright blue swirls and orange dots

Skirt & Balls Wires are attached to the top with epoxy, and painted styrofoam balls are added. The purple mesh "crynoline" is added, putting the "cool" in "Funky Coolip".

Petal Detail Close-up of one of the petals; a swirling checkerboard pattern, with flat glass stones attached.

Petal Close-Up In keeping with the theme (City of Ottawa's 150th anniversary), Ottawa logo & 150 added to back petal.

Top Detail Matching swirling checkerboard pattern is added to the other small petal, along with purple glass stones. More purple netting is attached to the top, to complete the effect.

Ottawa Logo In keeping with this year's theme, Ottawa's 150th anniversary logo featuring the fireworks design, fits perfectly with the intricate design emerging.

Finished - In Studio Finished, in studio, before receiving three coats of lacquer to protect it from three weeks of Ottawa elements.

Onsite - Back The tulip is positioned in front of City Hall, closest to the corner of Elgin & Laurier Streets, at the Laurier entrance.

Onsite - Front "Funky Coolip" is just one of 150 amazing works of art by Ottawa & area artists that grace the front lawn of Ottawa City Hall.

Art Gallery Tulip artists' paintings are featured in the Tulip Festival Art Gallery tent, onsite at the City Hall location.

Cut Flowers On Red Giclee "Cut Flowers On Red" limited edition Giclee print (#4 of 10), 20"x28", is featured in the Tulip Festival Art Gallery. $300.