Exhibition Highlights Moths' Adaptability
An exhibition exploring how moths have adapted to environmental changes caused by human activity has recently opened.
The event, featuring mezzotint prints by artist Sarah Gillespie, is being held at the Cornish gallery Kestle Barton.
Gillespie explained that the exhibition goes beyond her long-standing fascination with moth wing patterns, reflecting her increasing awareness that
"what is wild hides from us"as habitats are destroyed due to development and pesticide use.
The exhibition is scheduled to run from 20 June to 6 September.
Focus on the Peppered Moth's Evolution
A central theme of the exhibition is the story of the peppered moth, which adapted during the industrial revolution by developing darker coloring to blend in with soot-covered buildings.
Following the introduction of clean air laws in the 1960s that reduced pollution, the species reverted to its lighter markings.
Gillespie remarked on nature's tendency to conceal itself, stating
"Nature always has liked 'to be hid' but what is left now, it really must hide. We are the danger."
She also shared her enduring interest in the camouflage and disruptive patterning of moth wings:
"I've been fascinated for a long time by the camouflage and disruptive patterning of moth wings,"she added.
Ethical Artistic Practices
Organisers noted that Gillespie used moths that were humanely captured and released during the creation of her artworks.
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