The word Orchid is derived from the Greek work orchis which translates as testicle. Orchids, as all flowers, contain both the male and female reproductive organs for the plant. Part of the fascination and obsession with orchid collecting has been due to the fact that many of the flowers resemble human genitalia. In the nineteenth century orchid societies did not allow women to join because the flowers were deemed too sexually explicit for them. Eve and Adam is an embroidered piece that explores some of these themes. Two different species of orchids are embroidered on a bright green leaf patterned brocade invoking notions of an idealized garden and a time where our biblical ancestors were not ashamed of their nakedness.

Eve & Adam, 2009. 156 x 205 cm, embroidered cotton on cotton, steel armature.

Photos: Morrow Scot-Brown