Meet Jack Crow Buckley | Florist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jack Crow Buckley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jack, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Before becoming a florist, I was working in production as a set dresser and PA for a stop-motion studio when I realized it wasn’t making me happy. I’ve always believed in a very hippie-like attitude of “trusting the universe” and so I quit my job and did exactly that. I stopped working in production after years of being in that industry and began to follow a more creative outlet.

It was taking this huge risk led me to something I truly love. I think life should be full of things that scare you, and make you uncomfortable. Taking risks is what might lead you to something that changes your life.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m currently working on an installation series called “Life After Death” which is a representation of what the Earth would look like after humanity is gone. The concept is based off of a very existential thought and takes place on urban street scenes in LA that are contrasted with my placement of bursting colorful flowers, which represent the resilience of Life.

To me, creative expression has solidified my authenticity, despite the expectations or “scripts” we all believe we need to fulfill. It was challenging to make the choice to quit the structure and predictability of a 9-5, but as soon as I started saying “yes” to opportunity, I began feeling way more purposeful and fulfilled in life than I ever had before.

Throughout my life I’ve always felt the instinct to create, combined with a natural tendency to question the deeper meaning behind everything- so this “Life After Death” series is both a culmination of who I am and a start to an exciting future with lots of similar thought-provoking installations to come.

A medium of floral work that I also really love is called “Ikebana” which is the Japanese art of floral arranging based on the concepts of balance, harmony and peace. Mastering the art of Ikebana is something I hope to continue working towards.

My main goal in what I do is to inspire and invoke feelings of child-like essence, imagination, or even existentialism. When people look at my botanical art, I want them to have that same excitement and curiosity you see on a kids face when you give them a flower.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Ok- so the best chicken burrito you’re gonna find in LA is at Tacos Delta in Silverlake. A very close second (if not tied with Tacos Delta) is Lily’s in Malibu.

For a coffee shop with cute ambience, amazing flourless chocolate cake and great coffee, Valerie Confections in Echo Park is your best bet.

For the best milkshakes and fried chicken sandwiches, you’re gonna check out the Oinkster in Eagle Rock. It has a 1960s classic feel to it and the food is dank.

For a beautiful hike that will lead you to some cool ruins and a waterfall in Malibu, go to Solstice Canyon Trail at the bottom of Corral Canyon.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Growing up, my family was extremely nomadic. I was born in Santa Monica then raised in New Zealand to only return back to Malibu when I was about 8. I have always been surrounded by creativity; my dad has a career in film, my mom is an interior designer, and my sister is a musician. My siblings and I were always encouraged to prioritize happiness and to dream more than anything else. We moved around a lot and I honestly loved every minute of it. I was always a part of their adventures, which is still how I live to this day.

I also have to shout out LA itself. This city has led me to meet so many other creative minds and friends that share a passion for their craft.

Lastly, the team at the Unlikely Florist in Venice (where I work!) are family to me and inspire me every single day.

Instagram: Jackcrowbuckley

Image Credits
@orakohan black and white photo