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JAKE KALE OF COBRA LILY FLORAL DESIGN

Photo Credit: Karen Doolittle

With the world in a state of disarray, everybody needs more gorgeous flowers in their life. That’s why Jake Kale, founder of Cobra Lily floral studio has taken up plant material as a way to express himself (and joy). With a background in production design and editorial work, the leap to floral artist was a natural one. On a typical work day, the Historic Los Angeles Flower Market provides the stems, and Jake whips up creative masterpieces alone in his studio, sometimes with paint and rhinestone. Industry connections from his work on music videos and fine art allowed Jake to reconnect with former collaborators for new projects, with his new medium: flowers. Having worked for David LaChapelle, Jake has been inspired to use loud color and grand shapes in his arrangements. One look at his petal sculptures and you are taken by the bold clash of color and vibrance. Already familiar with flowering beloved drag queens, Dua Lipa, Tracee Ellis Ross, Taylor Swift, and The Weekend, Jake hopes to continue pushing boundaries and focus on highlighting queer and art communities.

What inspired your name?

The name ‘Cobra Lily’ is inspired by the carnivorous pitcher plant Darlingtonia californica, affectionately known to florists as the Cobra Lily. I've also been obsessed with snakes since I was young. It felt like a strong fit for me. 

You have a background in fine art and music video production, how did you get into flowers?

What is the statement you're making using plant material as art?

That there is beauty in impermanence. Floral design is here for a good time, not a long time. 

Loud color and unpredictability are part of your style. What inspires the Cobra Lily aesthetic? Is it the same/different from your personal taste?

What defines the floral aesthetic of the 21st century? 

Why are floral arrangements important in 2022?

Shea Couleé

Did connections from your past lives in design help you link up with notable clients?

Your CV lists big names in fashion and editorial: David Yurman, Rolling Stone, Essence… What’s it like working for such epic clients?

Dua Lipa shot by David LaChapelle wearing your orchid crown and holding a bouquet made with your hands… Tell us everything. 

How about Tracee Ellis Ross for Essence?

Wedding florals featured in Vogue, fashion editorials in Rolling Stone and Essence, what have been your favorite projects?

You’ve done a lot of work with famous drag queens. Who are your faves, and do you consider yourself a queer brand?

Who/what are your dream clients/collaborations?

What was it like designing the ballroom scene for The Weekend’s “Save You Tears” music video? 

How has your business grown from where it started in 2018 as a one man show?

What’s next for Cobra Lily?

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