Aglais io

11”x17”
Handpainted collage on canvas

“We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.” — Maya Angelou

There are moments when individuals may appear to conceal their true selves, as if wearing a mask or fading into the background. However, unbeknownst to others, this camouflage merely signifies their imminent transformation into the finest version of themselves. This metamorphosis is not about surpassing the confines of a mere 150 words, but rather about transcending personal limitations and embracing growth.

This piece is representative of the Peacock butterfly who uses eyespots as a defence mechanism against predators. It remains still with folded wings, but when a predator approaches, it swiftly opens its wings to reveal the eyespots, tricking the predator into thinking it's facing a larger animal. Sometimes an effective defence in humans as well. Figuratively speaking, of course.