Pure Artifice

In my studio I have a new companion in honor of Halloween. Though a plant, this Asian native has the soul of an artist, one who creates illusions and allusions. This black bat lily (Tacca chantrieri), aka devil flower, has not only evolved into resembling a bat but also imitates the smell of carrion to attract frustrated pollinators! Lots of tricks up the glossy green sleeves of this shapeshifter! Lucky for me I can’t seem to smell a thing. In the Victorian language of flowers the lily signifies purity although I’m sure they did not have this particular lily in mind.

Bat Lily sepia side - photo by Marie Cameron 2012


Bat Lily in sepia profile – photo by Marie Cameron 2012

Bat Lily sepia face - photo by Marie Cameron 2012


Bat Lily in sepia face – photo by Marie Cameron 2012

Bat Lily Bloom detail -photo Marie Cameron 2012


Bat Lily Bloom detail -photo Marie Cameron 2012

Tacca chantrieri Portrait  - photo Marie Cameron 2012


Tacca chantrieri Portrait – photo Marie Cameron 2012

Black Bat Lily- photo Marie Cameron 2012


Black Bat Lily – photo Marie Cameron 2012