Venus flytrap on parade

About Allison

Allison Fanelli is a retired Registered Nurse and life-long artist.  

Originally from Pennsylvania, Allison relocated to Calabash in 2020, where she finds inspiration in this coastal area which is reflected in much of her art.  

Allison is a self-taught artist and loves to create using acrylics, watercolor and glass mosaics.  Most of her work is a mix of these, but she’s always looking for new ways to express herself through art.  

Her work can be found regularly in Franklin Square Gallery, Seacoast Artists Gallery and Sunset River Gallery.  She also works with patrons on commissions.  

Allison’s best times are spent with her husband and two dogs, Ranger and Driver.  She enjoys the beach, cooking for family and friends and exploring her new state.

See more of her work by visiting allisonfanelliart.com or on her Facebook page, Art by A Fanelli.

Inspiration for "Fatal Attraction"
 

I was most intrigued by the uniqueness of the subject, and how the VFT captures its prey.  

My vision then became very practical and pragmatic.  Since the plant is carnivorous, she lures n insects by her beauty.  

What also lures in insects?  Flowers!  The form lent, in my opinion, to the shape of a vase.  I wanted to cover the vase and its base with flowers, and I used my experience with both acrylic painting and glass mosaics to display flowers, bugs and bees.  

My piece "Fatal attraction" symbolizes  how the Venus fly trap uniquely attracts and thrives in the Carolina grassy wetlands.  The beauty and nectar of the flowers (in the glass covered base and the leaves of the plant) draw in the insects, and the toothed leaves (disguised by sky and clouds) secure their meal.  I strived to make the insect's "fatal attraction" beautiful.

I was honored to be selected for the project, and I truly enjoyed creating this statue for the anniversary of Carolina Beach!  It is so exciting to be part of your event and history, and I do hope everyone who sees Fatal Attraction walks away with a little education and appreciation for our unique treasure.

Located at Windstar Hotel

Sponsored by Windstar Hotel