Inspired by an Instagram post in 2023 from Jack White that likened the draw of a presidential candidate to a Venus Fly Trap. The metaphor captured and enveloped my attention. I felt compelled to paint a small image of the post, created a ceramic frame for the painting, and sent it off to the author as a thank you for the metaphor and use of his voice to share an opinion.

I was continually haunted by the visual metaphor.

Even then, prior to the election, it felt insufficient to place such powerful ownership of a political movement antithetical to American ideals on one person. The candidate’s demeanor left doubt in many Americans minds of if this disruptor truly realized the impact of the promises and behaviors.

There had to be far more people involved; people who would soon benefit from pillaging the government systems, removal of protections, stripping of rights and benefits, and manipulating the checks and balances of the governmental institutions.

It wasn’t one carnivorous plant, attributed to one person. There were many, many traps.

The potted plant sculptures resemble carnivorous plants, such as Venus Fly Traps. Each trap holds a trait, written in cursive, and leafed in metal.

Each trait itself can be beneficial, indifferent, or malignant. Placed together, and encouraged under specific conditions, the garden grows.

I delighted in the irony of the metaphor many times, as a Venus Fly Trap is deceptively difficult to grow because they thrive on neglect.

Rich soil, fertilizer, or tap water is fatal to the plant… it’s too nutritious. Too much prey will cause the trap to rot.