Fifth in Series: The Butterfly Garden
Her fifth series of paintings extends from her previous work on spices, as many of the plants that produce spices also thrive in her garden, which is a haven for butterflies and other insects. As an insect photographer, she has had the privilege of documenting the various stages of metamorphosis, deepening her understanding of the delicate balance in nature, where each organism is essential for the other's existence.
Butterflies, symbols of hope and transformation, have been used as metaphors for generations. The moment a butterfly takes its first flight from the chrysalis embodies freedom and transformation, highlighting the cyclical nature of life. Nothing can exist in isolation; everything is part of an ecosystem that supports its life cycle, encapsulating the concept of "existentialism."
In today's world, human actions have significant impacts on our planet. It is crucial to acknowledge our responsibility for these changes, but there is still time for nature to heal itself, much like the metamorphosis of insects. Her interest in insect photography led her to explore why certain species thrive, often linked to food availability and their respective host plants—showcasing a life of coexistence.
She chose to paint the butterflies she observed most frequently in her garden. The egg fly, which guards its eggs; the common mime, whose caterpillars feed on the poisonous oleander; the pierrots; and the crow butterfly exemplify the fascinating Batesian mimicry. This awareness of planting host plants to attract butterflies was beautifully illustrated in her observations and paintings.
This collection features 21 selected butterflies, each with its story, painted on stretched canvas using acrylic paint in the impasto technique. The works are concise, reflecting scenes from her garden. The great artworks of Picasso, Van Gogh, and Salvador Dali have served as metaphors and inspiration in her work. She often exhibits her poems alongside her paintings, adding another layer of connection to the subject.