Beyond Compare original collage on panel

A Promethea Moth and a Clifden Nonpareil fly together over a shifting topological landscape along with a little guy in the corner. The Clifden Nonpareil’s name means “beyond compare,” and it was considered extinct in the 1960s. A British moth, also known as the Blue Underwing, it is absolutely huge, and has recently made an astounding comeback, sometimes even seen flying inland from over the sea.

Promethea is a giant silk moth from the Eastern United States. When the Promethea caterpillar builds its cocoon, it stays inside all winter long, which is quite a bit longer than most moths. The females and the males are active at different times of day, finding mates only around dusk. The males imitate a poisonous butterfly for survival because he’s active during the day. The female is brown in order to hide among dead leaves at night because she spends more time laying eggs than flying around.

There are several different themes around hiding here. How long do you hide in your cocoon, and how long would you like to? Even more extreme: would you prefer to play dead while plotting a magnificent comeback? How do different genders hide differently?

Original colored pencil moth drawings and collage of marbled paper from old books on birch panel with the sides painted black. Measures 12x12 inches and .75 inches deep. Varnished to provide archival UV protection.

Pick up or delivery available if you live in the Seattle area. Contact me to arrange details.

You can purchase this piece as a print here.