Hopper Hues

Artist Statement\nFrom the elusive to the invasive, the insect world is often underrepresented in art. I created this piece to illustrate the beauty and intricacy of Romalea microptera, an invasive and destructive grasshopper species. Despite its impact on the environment, the beauty of this organism is apparent. A cascade of different appearances marks its life span until it reaches its final form; an array of oranges, pinks, and yellows.\nWhat causes the division in public opinion on insects? What traits cause the recoil? There is beauty in both the beetle and the grasshopper, not just the butterfly. Expanding our understanding of each creature and learning to appreciate their unique traits creates an entirely new world artistically. The fine lines and dots of a grasshopper’s wings took millions of years of evolution to develop and yet can be disregarded in an instant. Through art, I hope this beauty can become apparent and influential to the viewer, erasing some entomophobia.\nIn opening our eyes to the details of nature (the grotesque, the pest, and the vermin) we can become aware of a rare kind of beauty. The purpose of this piece is to not only illustrate the beauty of the Eastern Lubber grasshopper, but to also provide a glimpse of the intricate and beautiful world of insects. It’s a reminder of the things we disregard and the beauty of destructive creatures.