Current Collection — Vanishing Series

Orchid Fever: A Costly Obsession

In stark contrast to the common lack of connection with plants and waning conservation efforts, there is a group of individuals with an unhealthy obsession for orchids. Those who have succumbed to “orchid fever”, driven by greed and social status, seek out the rarest and most vulnerable species. Undeterred by legal repercussions, risk of kidnapping and death, they venture into the unforgiving jungles of the world to discover new species or capture the last remaining specimens (or they pay someone else to do their bidding.)

Plundered to the point of extinction, orchids are smuggled around the world and delivered to the highest bidder. Sadly, the threat of extinction only serves to increase demand and market value. So, the more vulnerable the orchid species, the greater the likelihood that it will be hunted until no more remain in the wild.

But not all smugglers are trafficking orchids. Bound by strict regulations and red tape, the very system intended to protect vulnerable plants may be unintentionally contributing to their demise. As orchid experts discover new or threatened specimens in the wild, they can’t compete with those who are illegally pillaging. Unlike orchid traffickers, who are paid handsomely and circumvent the proper channels, orchid experts’ efforts are hindered. By the time they obtain funding and the approval to procure and import a specimen, the orchids have all but disappeared. So, some are taking matters into their own hands.

Are these smugglers true orchid vigilantes or thieves operating under the guise of conservationists?

caladenia pumila

5" x 7" mixed media on birch panel