Art can be visual or performing, temporal or spatial. Art can be just about anything that we consider to be beautiful or worth looking at. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and I would be hard- pressed to find someone who did not think flowers were beautiful after looking at “Veranda: The Romance of Flowers” by Clinton Smith.

Smith is the editor-in-chief of Veranda magazine and also a graduate of the University of Mississippi. He will be in town Friday signing his new book at Provision Oxford located at 1611 University Ave.

Provision Oxford is a unique furniture store that offers an exquisitely curated selection of fine furniture, home goods, jewelry, food products and art books worthy of any coffee table. It is always a treat to wander into the store to see beautifully made items, as well as art by local artists.

On Friday they will be holding a reception and book signing from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. to celebrate Smith and his new book.

Having a sneak peek at this volume was a real treat as it is eye-candy from start to finish. The photographs are incredible, and the quotes and stories are interesting and inspiring.

Smith is an award-winning journalist who has been covering the fields of interior design, architecture, travel and more for over 15 years and is now at the helm of the magazine, Veranda which celebrates interiors and luxury lifestyles.

Originally from Texas, this Ole Miss graduate has helped the magazine become the ultimate sourcebook for those looking for the best of the best in decorating, flowers and entertainment.

As I paged through the book that is filled with photo after lovely photo, it was apparent that this book was meant to showcase the artistry of floral designers and talented home owners. I especially loved the spreads that showed flowers displayed next to great works of art including one page that featured flowers next to two Matisse prints.

The quotes were also a great addition and ranged from words spoken by Dorothy Draper to Andy Warhol. Even Shakespeare is quoted.

This book is a jewel and a work of art in and of itself with its lovely styling, patterned papers, great photos and interesting stories and comments by Smith.

Anyone who loves flowers would receive this gift with glee. The fact that it can be signed by the author is even more meaningful.

I give kudos to Provision Oxford for bringing great design and art to our town with their store. The signing is an opportunity to engage with an artist, in this case, the author who put together this book. He has a great eye for design and this book showcases that talent.

So make a stop at this well- run store which specializes in quality made and designed goods and meet Clinton while you have your new purchase signed.

And take time to smell the roses!

ANDI BEDSWORTH is owner of Art To Go, which brings free art opportunities to children in the community.