Flora Zhai is a metal artist and accessories designer with an unwavering passion for crafting one-of-a-kind creations that seamlessly blend nature's ethereal beauty with the raw power of metal. Their distinctive practice revolves around the fusion of natural specimens, their staple taxidermy resin butterflies and meticulously handcrafted metal structures, resulting in exquisite, otherworldly pieces that are suitable for those of all gender identities and captivate the senses.

Flora's artistic journey began in their early years when they found solace in the serene landscapes surrounding their childhood home in the mountains of Yunnan, China. Teeming with biodiversity, The delicate anatomy of the flora and fauna around them and the rugged strength of the steel structures in the rapidly developing city around them became their muses. Drawing inspiration from these contrasting elements, they embarked on a lifelong quest to create art that transcended conventional boundaries.

After honing their skills as a self taught metalsmith during the 2020 pandemic, Flora's desire to push the boundaries of her craft led them to experiment with unconventional materials. This pursuit led them to the world of taxidermy, a medium that allowed them to immortalize the delicate beauty of nature in a way that preserved their grace for eternity.

Signature Techniques:

Flora’s signature techniques involve meticulously melting and soldering organic silver frameworks that serve as elegant and protective encasements for their butterflies. They meticulously hand-select each butterfly specimen for its unique charm, ensuring that it harmonizes seamlessly with the metalwork. Through creating organic resin shapes through hanging the pieces as they cure, they create the illusion of creatures frozen in frozen rain water. Through a delicate and precise process, they embed the butterflies within the metal, creating wearable and decorative works of art that preserve the essence of these creatures.