The Beetle

This one was a specific ask; an exoticly patterned beetle to fill the screen, and seem to sit on a green velvet background. This piece is on it’s way to live in the exotic boho living room of a fey-like, creative kind of woman. I had just the selection of reference material. Several years ago I visited the Insectarium while visiting my daughter in Montreal. It was so very interesting and I was snapping pictures like a mad woman.

I really liked this one.

She chose this one and requested an 18” by 24” canvas.

The challenges with this piece were deciding which shadow patterns to follow, and making sure the black legs would show up nicely on a dark background. I worked with applying light areas on the velvet and emphasizing highlights.

The final piece has no frame, but the edges of the bottom left and top right corner are decorated with a pattern that echoes the beautiful design of the beetle.

The client is happy with the piece! I may do the yellow beetle anyhow!