There is often confusion as to whether the insects in my work are real. Yes, they are although they are dead and dried. The colours are their natural colour. I have not painted them. I have spent considerable time in Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand and Malaysia where most of the insects I work with come from. None of these species are endangered. They have been purchased through reputable insect specimen dealers throughout North America, Europe and Asia. They are initially collected by indigenous peoples who live in and around the rain forest. These people have a vested interest in protecting the rain forest for harvesting insects provides a livelihood.

Furthermore it is ecologically sound for they are a renewable resource. Ever heard the saying that where there is one cockroach there are 100? It's true and this applies to the vast majority of insect species. They reproduce at a tremendous rate. Unlike the Amazon which is being cut down to provide pastureland for cattle, Asian forests with the exception of some parts of Indonesia, are quite well protected. Everyone recognizes that forests are the lungs of the planet. We need them. One could make the arguement that those harvesting insects are in fact protecting the jungle. One should be aware that virtually every insect on the endangered species list is there because of loss of habitat, not over collecting. A large number of butterflies and some beetles are now being farm raised with the express purpose of marketing to collectors.

 

Many people who visit my exhibitions were never aware that such unusual insects exist. I hope that my exhibition will get them excited and perhaps they will be motivated to get involved with one of the many of the rain forest preservation projects out there. I would also like people to think about their own environment and behavior. How is urban and suburban encroachment affecting wildlife big and small in your neighborhood? It is easy to take up the case of larger mammals, birds and fish but what about smaller creatures who have an important role in the ecosystem to play be it pollinating flowers or helping in the decomposition of various matter?

 

Finally I want to say that I reuse and reuse the insects I have. After an exhibition I pin them on to foam boards and put them into boxes until the next exhibition. If something is damaged I always try to repair it before it gets thrown away and those beyond repair I give to children for further study.