Roderic O’Conor
Iris (?1913)
Tate
I planted flag iris in my garden last year and was so delighted when they flowered; they’re perennials, so I’m already looking forward to them coming up again this year. I’ve always liked their shape – there’s such a strong juxtaposition between the solid foliage and the little delicate flower which sits on top.
I had never encountered Roderic O’Conor’s work before, but this painting immediately spoke to me. The atmosphere is very alluring, I love dark-coloured petals and foliage, and irises are such a beautiful example of this sort of flower. That deep pink is so sultry, and partnered with the blues and purples, creates a strong mood.
Irises tell a dramatic story, starting in early spring when the new bladed leaves emerge. As the flowers begin to bloom in late spring they are like the climax of the narrative. Even after they are spent and the petals are drying, the leaves remain standing tall in my garden. They remind me that there is still much beauty to appreciate, even after the flowers have bloomed. Iris was presented by the Contemporary Art Society in 1959.
Flo Headlam is a garden designer and former presenter of the BBC television programme Gardeners’ World
