Artist Uses Bees As Art Collaborators For Her Delicate Sculptures (15 Pics)
In an extraordinary fusion of art and nature, one innovative artist, Ava Roth, has harnessed the collaborative spirit of bees to create delicate and breathtaking sculptures. With a deep respect for these vital pollinators, she transforms beeswax into stunning works that not only captivate the eye but also convey a powerful message about the interconnectedness of life. We had the opportunity to sit down with the artist to learn more about her creative process, inspiration, and the remarkable journey that led her to work with bees.
The artist explains, “This project has been several years in the making. It has taken a tremendous amount of trial and error to master the complex variables, such as what materials the bees respond to and reject (or destroy), how fast to get the pieces in and out of the hive in order to prevent the presence of brood or honey in the comb, and how to ‘communicate’ instructions to the bees about where to build and where not to build comb. I’ve been working with Master Beekeeper Mylee Nordin, who has been indispensable in strategizing, implementing, and even helping to conceptualize the scope of this project.”
Check out some of her wonderful works in the gallery below and continue scrolling to read her full interview with Demilked.
#1
Image source: Ava Roth
How long have you been creating these sculptures?
“My work with bees evolved slowly after a long period of working with beeswax as an encaustic artist. Immersing myself in beeswax for a few years led to me being increasingly curious about bees and the critical role they play in helping to maintain the health of our planet. The more I learned about bees, the more my newfound knowledge informed my work both conceptually and technically. Soon, I found myself working closely with a Master Beekeeper and interacting with bees directly, instead of just through the wax they produce. At this point, it is safe to say that bees are my muse, and that honoring them is the touchstone of this collection.”
#2
Image source: Ava Roth
What influenced or inspired you to pursue this particular art form?
“I was originally drawn to encaustic paint because of its organic properties. My work is fundamentally about exploring the relationship between humans and the natural environment, and the encaustic medium felt like a perfect fit from the moment I laid my hands on it. For those who have not heard of encaustic, it is a mixture of molten beeswax and pigment, and it predates oil paint as a method of painting. It is totally archival, extremely versatile, and luminous.”
#3
Image source: Ava Roth
Could you please share some insights into your creative process?
“The pieces in this series celebrate the bees’ delicate and complex work and attempt to mirror these qualities in playful concert. My mixed media embroideries echo the beautiful and ephemeral characteristics of the honeycomb. The project, in essence, is an inter-species collaboration. Each piece is made with non-toxic materials inside traditional Langstroth hive frames. I do not manipulate conditions, such as the structure of the hive or the time it takes bees to naturally build comb. The frames are simply slipped into the hives and ‘finished’ by bees in the dark privacy of their home.”
#4
Image source: Ava Roth
The artist’s sculptures, crafted with the help of bees, reflect not only her dedication to the craft but also her commitment to environmental consciousness. By showcasing the beauty and complexity of the bees’ work, she invites viewers to appreciate these often-overlooked creatures and their crucial role in our ecosystem.
Her pieces often incorporate elements that mimic the natural patterns of honeycomb, and the use of beeswax allows for a luminous quality that captures the light in mesmerizing ways. Each sculpture tells a story of collaboration, patience, and respect for the natural world.
#5
Image source: Ava Roth
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Image source: Ava Roth
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Image source: Ava Roth
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Image source: Ava Roth
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Image source: Ava Roth
#10
Image source: Ava Roth
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Image source: Ava Roth
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Image source: Ava Roth
#13
Image source: Ava Roth
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Image source: Ava Roth
#15
Image source: Ava Roth
In a time when environmental issues are increasingly pressing, this artist’s work serves as a reminder of the delicate balance within our ecosystems and the need to protect the creatures that sustain us. By allowing bees to play a pivotal role in her creative process, she not only celebrates their artistry but also advocates for their preservation.
Her work is a testament to the idea that art can be a powerful vehicle for change, sparking conversations about sustainability and the vital importance of bees in our lives. As she continues to explore this unique artistic avenue, we can expect to see even more breathtaking creations that highlight the beauty of nature and the intricate dance of collaboration between species.
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