Mat Collishaw, Auto-Immolation, 2010

An antique wooden altarpiece serves as the confines for framing a video depiction of an exotic, vibrant orchid suspended in midair, while flames consume its existence, creating a sense of passion, destruction and mystic beauty. The installation begins with the bloom unfolding, and as each petal opens, the intensity of the fire grows, providing the nourishment for life. Just as soon as the bloom opens in its entirety, it begins to close and retreat into itself, until it ultimately surrenders to the strength of the flames and perishes. The reflection of the baptistry in the glass screen made it impossible to contemplate the burning orchid without considerning the symbols and significance of religious ritual-space.