Orchids
As a delicate, graceful and exotic flower, orchids are a coveted ornamental plant in today’s society. In ancient Greece, however, orchids were associated with virility: strength, energy and a strong sex drive. Greek women believed that if the father of her unborn child ate large orchid tubers, she would give birth to a son. Other cultures throughout the ages have also ascribed power to orchids.
By showcasing this unique species in my current body of work, I want to communicate both the masculine and feminine depths that orchids represent. Using bright colors and graphic lines, I demonstrate the strength and energy as embraced by the Greeks. I select delicate origami papers from Japan to bring a feminine balance to each piece. Rather than rely on paint alone, using a combination of media allows each piece to hold this tension within itself.
