Woodlouse study 5: Small joys

Woodlouse study 5: Small joys
Acrylic on bamboo paper and 3D paperclay in second hand gold style frame, 2025 | 9cm 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 "Oniscus asellus" or common woodlouse. 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. 

This painting is such a little delight, the fun and kitsch gold frame brings out the little flashes of yellow in the moss and the "skirt" of the woodlouse. The woodlouse herself seems to be running at speed in pure delight across the moss. 

I hope this piece brings you joy in the small things. Although small, this little piece of artwork has brought me joy, sitting on my desk in all it's gold little glory. It brightens up gloomy days a little and makes me think of all the little woodlice in the garden running around full of the joy of life.