STORY BEHIND THE ART OF DOROTHY GARDNER MCCAULEY

17th Annual International

American Society of Botanical Artists at The Horticultural Society of New York

Slipper Orchid

Paphiopedilum Supersuk ‘Eureka’ x Raisin Pie ‘Hsinying’ x Sib

I have loved Paphiopedilum orchids forever. In 2006 the first drawing and painting I did for the Society of Botanical Artists Diploma course in London was a green paphiopedilum orchid. And I purchase at least one to paint each year. I feel honored and thrilled to be able to have one of my favorite plants in this show!

This specimen almost didn't happen as I was demonstrating for NESBA at the New England Spring Flower Show and had chosen not to bring my purse because of the large amount of art supplies I was carrying. While taking a break, I walked around the show and found the orchid. Luckily, I had purchased from the grower many times previously on Martha’s Vineyard so she was willing to save the orchid till I could borrow money from my sister who was taking me home from the show!

I knew when I bought this orchid that I had a piece of vellum that would be the perfect size and color for it. I am working primarily on vellum now and really enjoy the organic feel that it gives my paintings. I particularly liked the challenge of conveying the deep color of the flower while still maintaining the sheen of the pouch. I used mostly transparent Daniel Smith paints. Lastly, I absolutely loved doing the roots and the wonderful moss growing on them! Orchids truly fascinate me with their variations of color and texture.

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