Woodlouse study 6: Let's do this together

Woodlouse study 6: Let's do this together
Acrylic on bamboo paper in second hand white box frame, 2025 | 23cm x 28.5cm

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. 

These little ones are "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. 

I love how this piece somehow feels so grand with the frame and really draws your attention to the three woodlice, glorifying the unloved in a way that really pleases me. Woodlice tend to exist in congregations, this serves them well for retaining moisture and against predation. I like to imagine they form little groups of friends too and may travel around together for a while. This piece could be a lovely reminder of the support of pals or family, we are designed to live as part of a community, just like the woodlice.