Woodlouse study 4: Going in deeper

Woodlouse study 4: Going in deeper
Acrylic on bamboo paper in silver metal frame, 2025 | 16cm x 11cm

This piece is part of my mini collection, a dive into experimentation of techniques while also showcasing the incredible mini beasts we share our local environment with. They are a reminder to slow down and really relish the small joys we come across daily. 

This little pal is an "Armadillidum vulgare" or common pill bug. They are the nutrient recyclers of our garden and woodland environments, making sure all the dead matter gets turned back into something useful. They are a being that is taken for granted, without their impact our eco systems would suffer massively. 

I feel like woodlice are intrepid explorers, they just walk and explore and see where each path will take them. It would be wonderful to experience the world through their senses, I bet it would feel so different. 

This little friend is heading deeper into the moss, they have no idea what lays ahead but they just keep walking on and hoping they find some tasty decaying wood, or some more woodlice pals. I'd like to think this piece could be a reminder that being brave and stepping deeper into new environments is a part of life, it may bring joy or further hurdles, but at least we are moving forward.