I'm thrilled to share my miniature paper sculpture titled "Please Don't Bug Me!" This piece is a delightful dip into the whimsical and lively world of nature, all brought to life through the meticulous medium of hand-cut paper, watercolor, and gouache.
Imagine leaning in to inspect a small 1.5" x 1.5" creation, set within a minimalist dark brown frame measuring 6" x 6". The artwork features two realistic, three-dimensional acorns with textured brown caps, nestled against an oak branch with vividly detailed green leaves. These elements are so lifelike, you can almost feel the texture of the acorns and the veins on the leaves. But wait, there’s a delightful twist—peer a little closer, and you might spot a curious praying mantis engaging in a playful stare-off with you!
When crafting "Please Don't Bug Me!", I embraced the joy of bringing together realism and whimsy. The title plays on this charming duality—the praying mantis and the viewer both staring at one another! Having a praying mantis amidst the serene acorn-and-oak composition cheekily demands a smile from the viewer.
The intricate process of creating this miniature sculpture was indeed a labor of love. Every detail, from the acorns' caps to the tender veins of the leaves, was carefully crafted to ensure an authentically natural feel. The small size posed its own challenges, requiring precision and patience, but it also granted the freedom to pour my heart into each delicate component.
This piece, (and five other paper sculptures), was entered into the Miniature Art Society of Florida’s 2025 International Miniature Art Exhibition. The journey with “Please Don’t Bug Me” has been incredibly rewarding, especially as it has brought me the honor of receiving the Sculpture and Scrimshaw Award. With "Please Don't Bug Me!" selling right on the first day of the show, it just adds to my excitement and nurtures my passion for paper sculptures that enchant and amuse.
For those who'd like to experience this creation in person, it is available as part of an exhibition at the Gallery at Creative Pinellas in Largo, Florida. The show will be open from January 19 through February 9, 2025. I'm displaying a total of six pieces, each ready to spark wonder and joy. Whether you visit online or in person, there's always something special to discover in the colorful realm of my artwork.