Philosophy

“Art does not reproduce the visible; rather, it makes visible.”

— Paul Klee

I have made visible the hidden world of the insect footprint. When an insect walks on your hand, you may feel the legs move but nothing visible remains, only a sensation. These works of art render these insect tracks and routes visible, producing a visually pleasing piece while conveying pertinent, scientific information.

My paintings highlight the connection between science and art; between the natural environment and the human experience; between classic art techniques and abstract expressionism; and between an emotive natural, organic style and creative, constructive ideas.

My artistic appreciation for color, line, and form helps me to translate these small creatures into living brushes. My lifelong passion for insects (in the entertainment industry as well as my academic expertise) gives me an exceptional understanding of insect behavior associated with art and I am able to anticipate their movement as it relates to the canvas.

History of arthropods in art.  Studies in cultural entomology (Cultural Entomology Charles Hogue, Ann. Rev Entomol. V.32, 1987) reveal insects have been used as the subject of art since primitive man drew the first insect. Examples of insects in art include prehistoric renditions which included insects, ancient Chinese painting, Egyptian Scarabs and in the imaginative still-life paintings of 17 Century Flemish and European still-life painters (Insekten in der bildenden Kunst. Erwin Schimitschek, 1977). Still-life painters included flowers that blossom at different times of years were creatively painted together. Local insects were often incorporated on flowers and objects found on furniture in these paintings. In the 20th century Salvidore Dali, Rene Magritte and many other artists used insects as subjects for their art. Contemporary 21st century artists still use insect images (Butterfly Cooing like a Dove. Miriam Rothschild, 1991). Examples of artists using insect images in art  (see Exhibits tab) where insects are either the main subject of the art or part of it.                                 Rev. 11/1/16

Additional Comments:  Clouds are beetle footprints in the sky.  Insect have evolved to survive when it rains and they get muddy.  The paint I use is like mud and the insects will adapt or remove the mud.  This mud is transferred to paper by interpreting it with watercolor paint.   The moving canvas and the loving brush create a wold of beauty that I have found visually compelling.