After the Fire Ed. 2 of 10

“After the Fire” represents the beauty that results from bushfires. I came across Cyanicula sericea (Silky Blue Orchid) in the bush and noticed they were growing in the charred remains from a summer fire. I was inspired by the kaleidoscope of colour and the contrasts of orange and blue. The blackened ground was dotted with new shoots of green growth. First the little silky blue orchids appear, followed by Pink Fairies and the ground comes alive with colour.
For most terrestrial orchids in Australia, fire during their dormant period has no adverse effects on their growth. Some species respond very favourably to fire during their dormant stage by eventually flowering in great abundance, usually six to nine months later. This is due to the gases produced during the fires. If fire occurs while the orchids are actively growing, the flowering and seeding stages can be destroyed, therefore ruining the chances of survival.
Every time you look at this painting you will see different little details and it will become a talking point in your home.
A beautiful work that you will never get tired of.

Follow

Delma considers herself a Contemporary Botanic Artist. Traditionally, Botanical art is executed in watercolour or graphite, actual size with a plain background. Contrary to tradition she paints in oils, on canvas, in full saturated colour. The plant must be readily identified and is always larger than life, even though the work maybe a miniature. The subject is always ‘in situ’, in reference to the larger ecosystem. Delma always locates the subject in its natural habitat. Delma paints intricate detail to be true to the beauty of nature. She doesn’t paint impressions of flowers. It is her purpose to capture the reason for its existence and how it looks and survives and its interactions with other plants and animals. I want the viewer to be fascinated by the beauty and uniqueness of Western Australian flora and to consider the environment. I want them to see and feel what I did when I found that little orchid glowing in the sun and its petals fluttering in the breeze.Going out bush to isolated places in Western Australia inspires Delma works in pastels of Rural Life. Her Still Life studies enable her to work in her studio on the effects of light on everyday objects.