Dragon's Mouth Orchid #1

Orchids are the most numerous of flowering plants. With estimates of 28,000 species worldwide, there are more orchids on the planet than mammals and birds. Ontario has North America’s largest concentration of wild orchid species outside of Florida. Yet these flowers are elusive, finding safe harbour in delicate fens, timbered slopes and damp woodlands, and only blooming when conditions are right for each varietal. Led by a trusted guide to the secret, wet locations where Orchids grow, featuring petals that last barely a fortnight, every photo in the series is the result of careful planning and timing.

Inspired by the flower paintings of Tom Thompson and the beadwork made by Métis, Anishinaabe, and Mi'kmaq artists, the flowers in these compositions are set against a black background, held by the hands of the Orchid guides to highlight these perfectly spiritual, delicate blooms, while acknowledging the stewardship of the original indigenous guardians of these elusive plants.

Looking at flowers is a joy experienced by people around the world - whether in gardens, nature, or cut bouquets - but that moment is fleeting, and so an underlying ambition of these compositions is to meet each orchid at the height of its bloom so that it may be enjoyed forever.