Whenever I see orchids I think of Georgia O’Keeffe and her sensual orchid paintings (and, of course, lady parts). Her work has always wowed me for it’s smooth lines and gorgeous use of colour.
I decided that if I could paint that flower in a huge scale, you could not ignore its beauty. Georgia O’Keeffe
In the summer of 2002, I was in B.C. for a visit and got a chance to hit up the Vancouver Art Gallery. The main exhibit, Places of Their Own, featured three iconic women — Frida Kahlo, Emily Carr, and O’Keeffe. I thought I had lucked out! I was so excited to see one of O’Keeffe’s orchids in person. Unfortunately, there were none on exhibit, they only had her Adobe paintings. Darn it!
Orchids, watercolour, 2011
Awhile ago, I found an image of an orchid and thought it would be fun to paint. I had to refrain from putting too much colour on the paper, which is difficult for me. It was certainly a lesson in minimalism. It turned out quite light, but not bad. In no way, shape, or form is it even remotely close to an O’Keeffe. I wish!
I’ve been absolutely terrified every moment of my life – and I’ve never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted to do. Georgia O’Keeffe
