TROMPE L'OEIL PAINTINGS OF INSECTS

When I painted this first trompe l'oeil work in 1997, it launched a refreshing new period in a painting career begun in 1965.

"LUNA MOTH"
While working a late evening marathon in the studio, the outside deck illuminated by a floodlight, I noticed, to my delight, that we had a hatch of Luna Moths. The Luna is one of North America's largest 'silk moths'. Its beautiful green color and tailed hind wings are quite striking. Although a common moth, annual populations in our area have been extremely variable due to predation and weather conditions. This was a good year. My interest in moths, butterflies and insects in general goes back to my childhood and continues today.

Acrylic on Panel 8" x 10" This Original is Sold

"AN INTRODUCTION TO BUTTERFLIES"
Back in the day, cigar boxes were easily found. For insect collectors they were an inexpensive (free) repository. The species depicted are a male and female Cabbage Butterfly.

Acrylic on Panel 9" x 12" This Original is Sold

"POPULATION DYNAMICS"
This painting is a metaphor for the condition of our planet's ecological health. The egg represents earth, the iconic Monarch Butterfly represents all living species, the dynamite box refers to the massive environmental damage man has perpetrated upon our planet. The delicate balance speaks for itself.