Artful
Insects & Inspired Arachnids
Exhibit at Tohono Chul Park, Tucson, Arizona.
Artful Insects and Inspired Arachnids
includes the work of 23 artists from the Southwest that will
encourage visitors to take a closer look at the tiny animals that
inhabit Earth. For many of us, insects do not elicit the same warm
and fuzzy feelings that birds and mammals do. Quite simply, as we
hustle about our daily routines, we do not take the time to notice
the various bugs and spiders that are denizens of our environment.
Perhaps they get our attention when we get bitten by one or when
they have munched the leaves in our garden. And yet, if we consider
the ways the six- and eight-legged critters survive and adapt, we
may gain a greater appreciation of these diminutive creatures.
Insects play an
important role in Earth’s health. They pollinate plants which feed
the planet, provide oxygen for our atmosphere, and loosen and
fertilize the soil. While some are destructive pests, many more
provide products like honey, beeswax, silk and even food for many
cultures around the world.
A universe of
fluttering moths and butterflies, hovering dragonflies and honey
bees, industrious harvester ants and paper wasps provide inspiration
for a wide range of paintings, drawings, jewelry and beadwork, fiber
and photography. From realistic renderings to artful fancy, the
diversity of artworks helps us all to look a little closer and see
the tiniest creatures in our world a little differently.
Artful Insects and Inspired Arachnids
will also feature a children’s art activity as part of the exhibit.
Kids can “Build a Bug” out of parts created by Tohono Chul Park
volunteers using fabric and modeling clay.
Opening Reception:
Tohono Chul Park will hold a free opening reception from 5:30-7:30pm
on Thursday, May 22, for the Park’s new exhibit,
Artful Insects and Inspired
Arachnids. The reception will include free refreshments
courtesy of Trader Joe’s and two presentations by Carl Olson from
the University of Arizona Department of Entomology featuring live
insects. The exhibit will run from May 22 – August 17
About Tohono Chul Park:
Tohono Chul Park is the Southwest’s center where nature, art, and
culture connect. Educational programs, art, and cultural exhibits,
nature trails, gardens, and special events offer the visitor the
opportunity to experience the desert and all its treasurers. For
more information on the Park, please
Click Here.
Find out more about
Tohono Chul Park.
