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 Kindred spirits and friends of many years, Laura Falcon and Maria Merriman would challenge the idea to preserve the wings of butterflies and moths to harness their beauty for many works of art from jewelry to sculpting. Our love of nature paired with a deep admiration of her beauty would breathe life into Wings of the Woodland.
So the journey begins with nothing more than questions. First of which was how do we acquire wings? What would be the method of preservation? Not much in the way of research has been done in this area, and the few who have a process are understandably not sharing. We swiftly concluded we were on our own.
After much time the only easy part was the pursuit of wings which came from naturally expired insects so generously given to us from butterfly exhibits, not to mention the countless walking and biking trips along roadsides where so many meet their fate from passing vehicles. Most insects we collect are very much intact and in good condition. It is important to say we in no way harm any of these beautiful creatures. Our goal is the preservation of their fleeting beauty.
We have reared large silk moths reason being they are becoming scarce, they are night flyers and are seldom seen. One will rarely, if ever, find them along roadsides. Rearing is a neat thing to do and to share the experience, especially with children has its rewards. Given half the chance, most adults can’t help but to take an interest as well. Once a moth emerges (ecloses) from its cocoon their sole purpose is to mate and reproduce. This all takes place within a week give or take a day or so. Most live on stored fat and are born with little to no mouth parts. Unable to feed, this speeds the little time they have to get the job done, it is then that they expire. Upon completing their journey, we then preserve their beautiful wings.
The process of preservation, through much “blood, sweat and tears and years of trial and error, has armed us with much knowledge and the comfort to be able to say “we have arrived!”
A metamorphic change began to take place, an idea became reality. We have journeyed into a captivating world, not by chance but one of purpose and fulfillment. When together fueled by each others imagination, our ideas take flight and away we go. Our original vision of jewelry continues to evolve. Something new awaits us around each corner. The enchanted world of God’s beautiful creatures in which we share space is a gift. It offers each of us a little something special whether it’s a lifting of one’s spirit by their sheer beauty, or perhaps it’s the adoration and envy of their playful flight. A personal favorite of ours is metamorphosis. A wonderful lesson can be learned. Life is ever evolving with nothing remaining the same. However good or bad, change is necessary and inevitable. What begins as an egg (ovi) quickly becomes a caterpillar (larvae), more changes are taking place driving the mature caterpillar into its cocoon (chrysalis). Followed by a long deep sleep, developing in its slumber are the most profound changes. And on a warm day what appeared to have been lifeless, suddenly, is reborn and an adult butterfly or moth emerges (ecloses) ready to take flight and experience life once again.
Quote “ What the caterpillar calls the end of the world the master calls a butterfly” Richard Bach
Now in full flight “2007” WOW offers many works of art available now on our website. Up coming exhibits and private shows, upon request.
With much love of our winged friends and you,
Maria & Laura
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