Art Blog

Three-dimensional insect sculptures by Retha Buitendach

Retha Buitendach creates three-dimensional insects - small sculptures assembled from sticks, leaves, pods and seeds.

She had been creating these imaginary creatures for over twenty years. She scans her surroundings for dried leaves, twigs, rocks, etc that could become a potential foot or mandible of some creature yet to be created. "I started making insects because they are such marvelous yet undervalued creatures and miniature artworks themselves," says Buitendach.

These fantasy insects are very nearly real insects, and Buitendach gives them both a common and Latin name. "My insects are mostly fantasy creatures but with some links to real insects in nature, both in structure and the naming of the newly invented ones," she states.

Buitendach spends roughly three days to a week creating one insect. If she happens to find just the right objects, there is a free flow of creation, but sometimes she may need to go roaming the neighbourhood to find just the right part for legs or a head.

The three-dimensional 'sculptures' are displayed in a box frame between double glass. The frame protects them from dust and damage. "I have framed insects that's twenty years old and still in perfect condition," says Buitendach. "The double glass means that it looks as if the insect is really sitting on your wall and at night it casts a shadow against the wall that looks very real indeed." She can also make specific insects on request - any size.

For more on Retha Buitendach, view her artist portfolio.