Ghost orchid in the machine

An interview profiles artist Rachel Youn and their kinetic sculptures built from discarded home electronics and artificial flowers.

The standout work, Slow Burn, uses a neck massager mechanism to repeatedly open and close an artificial orchid.

Youn connects the work to their upbringing, animation interests, and reflections on identity, religion, and the performance of womanhood.

The sculptures aim to evoke affection, sadness, and eroticism, while blurring the line between care, labor, and control.