Acherontia Styx (2009) by Thanapol ChaichuayArt Centre Silpakorn University
This mixed-media art combines painting and collage to illustrate strikingly colorful butterflies amongst other surroundings, engaging the viewers to define meanings of each element of how nature and humans have both evolved.
“Acherontia Styx” is taken after the scientific name of a species of moth commonly found in Asia. Known in Thailand as ‘Skull Butterfly’, this particular species plays a significant role in the ecosystem of the forest.
With the pattern resembling a skull on the upper part of each wing, the butterfly carries both beauty and horror.
Thanapol Chaichuay, the artist, intricately presents the charm of various shapes, formed naturally and manually, by arranging each piece in a collage to convey a story like a jigsaw.
Acherontia Styx (2009) by Thanapol ChaichuayArt Centre Silpakorn University
On the wings of the butterfly and in the background, the artist showcases the patterns of flowers, seas, the sun, buildings, technology, industry, and living beings in the ecosystem.
Another interesting takeaway from the patterns is the well-known theory of evolution included in the means of writing.
Acherontia Styx (2009) by Thanapol ChaichuayArt Centre Silpakorn University
Through the beautiful and sophisticatedly created butterfly at the center, this piece of art is profoundly comparable to a historical record of ideas and perspectives of the artist towards the changes in the world.
Acherontia Styx (2009) by Thanapol ChaichuayArt Centre Silpakorn University
It illustrates how important it is to endlessly adapt, develop, and evolve to survive. It is a powerful and provocative piece of art.
The art encourages the viewers to reflect on the past, look at the present, and contemplate on the future in order to recognize direct and indirect long-term environmental impacts of what humans have created as well as the possibility of its perpetuality.
Check out more arts from Thailand at Thailand Art Up Close.
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