Flower Symbolism as Female Sexual Metaphor

Flowers have long been associated with the female experience. Throughout the history of art, literature, and mythology, they have metaphorically stood in for the physical female body, sexuality, chastity, and femininity. Written by watercolorist Andrea Arbit, this paper both presents an artistic survey of such symbolism and draws upon this long-standing tradition to suggest interpretations for her 2009-2010 watercolor series.