Native Orchids of Florida: 2008 World Orchid Conference Poster

One of our nation’s natural treasures can be found in southwest Florida. I visited the Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve, Inc. three times over the past two years. Guided on swampwalks by biologist Mike Owen and Dennis Giardina, we waded through several feet of water. Amid all the mosquitos, who liked me very much, I was awestruck by this unique habitat, home to so many native orchid species growing on cypress, pond apple and pop ash.

My painting depicts Polyrrhiza lindenii, Epidendrum cochleatum, Encyclia tampensis and Ionopsis utricularioides in situ, along with the feeling of being there. The overhead canopy of trees creates a dimly lit world of light bouncing off water, reflections and surreal beauty. It is the wild spirit of the Fakahatchee that I wanted to capture in my painting, to celebrate Florida’s natural world as host to The 2008 World Orchid Conference.