Norwegian-born Eilin Melkersen combines a natural, intuitive approach with a commitment to sustainability, giving contemporary floral art a unique voice. Her work is characterized by an organic sensibility, a profound respect for botanical materials, and an understated inventiveness that bridges the gap between tradition and forward-thinking practice. With her experience in sustainable entrepreneurship, she makes a meaningful contribution to the field, both through her craftsmanship and her creative concepts.

'My signature style is natural, organic, perhaps even a bit rough or messy, as some might describe it. I truly enjoy combining various botanical materials, though I'm careful to avoid excessive color contrasts. Organic branches, dried leaves, and thorns appeal to me deeply, reflecting nature's authentic beauty and character.'

'Inspiration comes to me from almost everywhere, but nature particularly captivates me with its organic shapes, lines, and even its decay. My creative process for competitions usually starts with a mind map to explore associations with the given task, followed by simple sketches. I choose a main material or technique to achieve the expression I'm aiming for, then refine through tests and improvements. Typically, I begin with one botanical element in mind, selecting other materials that complement its inherent character to ensure cohesion in the final piece.'

'Currently, I'm particularly drawn to materials that possess a distinctive personality, such as locally grown summer flowers or mature plants. Working with long stems allows me to fully showcase the unique character of each botanical element. Sustainability is a significant consideration for me, and I continuously explore eco-friendly, innovative methods. Over recent years, I've developed reusable, foam-free bases for funerals and designed floral tributes using plants as a base instead of traditional floral foam. For foliage, I favor naturally sourced branches with leaves, Lunaria, Cotinus, bear grass, and straws like Chasmanthium, Briza, or Panicum. Seasonal flowers hold a special charm.'

'Among recent projects, I am particularly proud of the spiky necklace created for the last Norwegian championship - it demanded extraordinary patience. Additionally, I feel passionate about my foam-free bases for funerals and events, driven by a belief in the necessity of sustainable practices.'

'Participating in the World Cup is a dream fulfilled. My strongest quality as a floral designer is my ability to perceive and respect the inherent personality of botanical materials, letting the materials guide the design rather than imposing my own will upon them. I can quickly conceive creative solutions, a strength in tasks with surprise materials. My distinctly Scandinavian style, marked by intentional spaces between elements and meticulous attention to composition, will perhaps set my work apart. We'll see how it unfolds.'