Pure Deception – Chalk Horse Presents Catfished by Benedict dos Remedios

The first solo exhibition by Benedict dos Remedios for contemporary art gallery Chalk Horse, Catfished features a series of large-scale paintings depicting exotic orchids.

The term ‘catfished’ is defined as ‘a fake or stolen identity created or used for the purposes of beginning a deceptive relationship’. As an artist, Benedict explores this concept, which has its roots in the digital age, through one of the natural world’s most intriguing phenomena – the orchids’ ability to mimic and deceive for their own ends.

Capturing the enticing flowers from an array of angles, from extreme close-ups of petals to visuals that speak to more traditional still-life portraits, Catfished presents both the contrasting organic depths found within the orchid form and their enthralling duplicity.

“I am interested in the way orchids have evolved their deceptive abilities to survive and expand as a species,” explains Benedict, “and how their beautiful markings attract not only insects, but the human gaze as well.” Capturing the enticing flowers from an array of angles, from extreme close-ups of petals to visuals that speak to more traditional still-life portraits, Catfished presents both the contrasting organic depths found within the orchid form and their enthralling duplicity.

Inspired by the deceptive flower’s beauty, Catfished places the bright palette of the plant on full display. Having directly evolved for the purpose of attraction and mimicry, the orchid’s colours help to lure insects to pollinate their flowers. As such, orchids play on the human fascination with nature and all its captivating characteristics. With this body of work, Benedict explores this underlying pull through a refreshing and resonant frame.

Catfished will run at Chalk Horse from 13 October to 14 November 2021.