Iron Beetle

Artist Notes

The heraldic beetle is developed in pure blackwork on the outer thigh, at 20x18 cm across six hours of work. The piece adopts the language of an old engraving: strong symmetry, volume through chiaroscuro and a central shell that organises the whole read. Contrast is achieved by layering patterns and leaving skin open rather than thinning the black into milky greys. Placing the design on the thigh provides a broad, stable surface, so the insect architecture can breathe and the legs integrate with the shape of the leg. The result aims for heavy visual weight and an almost sculptural presence, keeping the core black solid while the edges open up gradually to favour a sharp read over time.