Gypsy Moth, Hyalophora Cecropia

About this collection:

Moths are often seen as pesky, invasive, sweater-eating night bugs that fly into your light and get caught in inconvenient places where you can't get them out. Some see them as the ugly nighttime counterpart to the beautiful image associated with the butterfly. However, moths are actually very valuable nocturnal pollinators. They are fuzzy, beautifully patterned, and can help your flower bed absolutely flourish.

The folklore that surrounds moths is fascinating. In Appalachian folklore, a white moth inside the home symbolizes the presence, protection, or spiritual guidance of your ancestors. Silk Moths have no mouth parts for eating and their entire purpose is to find a mate, continue the species, and complete the cycle when they die. Each type of moth from various corners of the world has its own folklore to accompany their already mysterious nature, being a nocturnal pollinator. 

About this painting:

Each type of moth from various corners of the world has its own folklore to accompany their already mysterious nature, being a nocturnal pollinator. Giant Silk moths are often associated with Greek Mythology, as the origin of many of their scientific names. The Giant Red Silk Moth, or Hyalophora Cecropia, is named for Cecrops. Cecrops was born from the Earth, as half-man and half-snake. However, Cecrops is also thought to be the founder of both Athens and Greek civilization itself. This story along with their metamorphosis, is one reason that moths are also a symbol for transformation and moving on beyond your basic form to do something greater. 

That is why I chose to surround this fuzzy fellow with beautiful Blue Dahlias in full bloom. Acrylic on Canvas, 2022.