Orchids have always been considered one of the most overtly sexual flowers and women were banned from owning and collecting them in many places until the early 20th century.
Orchids in the wild are opportunistic and will grow in the crook of a tree or on a fallen log. Wallflowers consists of 10 slipper orchids, modeled in wax, cast in bronze that now inhabit white upholstered side chairs. This work references the mix of vulnerability and seeming sexual availability of young women; specifically the white dress and the orchid corsage of girls at a prom. For what are these “wallflowers” waiting?

Wallflowers 2007-2009. Barbara, Julie, Elaine, Linda. Amanda, Kimberley, Heather, Caroline, Stephanie, Tracy. Various dimensions, antique chairs, fabric, bronze.

Photos: Morrow Scot- Brown