Delirium #1

By Zoë Nash

Delirium #1 is a tribute to the brugmansia or angels’ trumpet flower – closely related to datura. I have long been drawn to the somewhat sculptural, and dancing, dome-like forms of the large blooms, along with their heady perfume. I'm also aware of the potentially fatal hallucinogenic and toxic properties of this plant, yet I choose to grow it in my garden. There is something mildly thrilling and rebellious about the contradictory nature of this species. There is inherent danger. A look but don’t touch. The complexities fascinate me. I use negative space set against areas of vibrant, drippy, patterned detail, to highlight these tensions and to distort spatial depth and focus, intentionally creating confusion for the viewer.

Unframed acrylic on canvas
500mm x 500mm x 35mm