KARACHI: A book about floral designing by Amtul Rauf (Oofi) Khan titled Handbook for Show Work — Designing, Staging, Exhibiting and Judging was launched at a local hotel on Wednesday evening. Speaking at the event organised by the Floral Art Society of Pakistan, Gardenia Chapter, Oofi Khan said the book is a comprehensive reference for floral design. It encapsulates internationally recognised traditions, principles and practices. At the same time, the handbook integrates elements of local cultural heritage. It also contains Islamic floral designs highlighting unique styles, cultural practices and symbolic meanings. “The book chronicles the entire history of floral design offering insights into various movements and unique styles. It aims to provide useful information to the less experienced floral designers… Floral design has evolved rapidly in recent years incorporating modern, contemporary, abstract and expressionist styles. The art of floral design continues to push creative boundaries,” she said. A demonstration by Shahimah Sayeed and Sabra Tufail called Where traditions meet, new beauty arises kept the audience engaged. Consul-General of Japan Hattori Masaru was the last speaker of the evening. He congratulated the author of the book and the organisers for putting together the programme. He said in his country the art of Ikebana is rooted in centuries of tradition. Shifting his attention to Karachi, he said the city is the hub for the arts. Earlier, Fahmida Hashmi paid a tribute to the late Zarin Patel. She said Ms Patel was a gentle soul who had a kind heart. She got to learn a lot from her. “She was not just a skilled designer, but a teacher in the truest sense, always ready to share her knowledge.” Naushaba Khalil talked about Ms Khan’s perseverance Amber Alibhai mentioned the charitable work that Ms Khan has undertaken. Mareyah Abbas, the granddaughter of the author, said she’s a cool nani. Ayesha Khan, Oofi Khan’s daughter, came to the podium and spoke on behalf of her father who, according to her, would have said, “Hip, hip, hurray!” Sabra Tufail and Shahimah Sayeed also spoke about the author.