Monarch (chrysalis) butterfly painting in pastel

The last in the series of commissioned butterfly paintings, the following features the pupal stage (or chrysalis) of the Monarch. The name chrysalis is derived from the Greek term ( chrysós), meaning "gold" and aptly describes the delicate metallic-like colouration that is found in the pupae of many butterflies.  You can see the rim of golden colored dots near the top third of the monarch butterfly's chrysalis.

I chose to depict the chrysalis in the later stages of development when the jade green color and gold rim is still visible and when the lower part of the membrane begins to clear, revealing some of the black and orange striped wings inside.

To view more butterfly paintings, visit my gallery.

Chrysalis of Monarch Butterfly and Common Milkweed
pastel
4"x6"
SOLD

Metamorphosis series

 

Progress of the chrysalis painting

Last but not least in the series of butterfly paintings features the chrysalis stage of the Monarch. Safely nestled amongst the common milkweed leaves, the chrysalis is anchored on the midrib (central or principle vein) on the underside of a single leaf.

Monarch Butterfly Painting in Pastel

This lovely monarch is feeding on the sweet nectar of the common milkweed flower. These butterflies are truly amazing to watch as they flutter and putter about in masses around patches of milkweed.  An even more impressive sight is the annual winter migration to wintering sites in Mexico where thousands upon thousands huddle together on trees in huge clusters, in some cases, completely covering the trunks.

For more wildlife paintings, visit my art gallery page.

Adult Monarch on Common Milkweed
(Danaus plexippus) and (Asclepias syriaca)
pastel
4"x6"
SOLD

Painting update of the little winged jewel!

Although I was not able to continue working on my painting today, I thought I should share what I completed last night. The lower border of the wings are edged in black and riddled in several rows of white dots which will require my utmost concentration in order to follow the pattern correctly.

Thanks for following and I watch for the finished painting in my next update!

Butterfly painting in progress

I don't usually relish the task of recreating backgrounds that much but I thoroughly enjoyed painting this one....minus the flower cluster!! I guess it is coming along but I will remember to stay away from tiny intricate flowers when working small scale!

Below is the progress of the 4th butterfly painting in the series and features the adult stage of the Monarch butterfly enjoying a sip of nectar from the flowers of the common milkweed plant. Once I am satisfied and done with the look of the flowers I get to paint the bold colors of the monarch!

Monarch caterpillar painting in pastel

The original reference image for this painting had a green color scheme that was too overpowering and monotonous.  I felt that by adding a pink cluster of milkweed blooms near the bottom would create a more pleasing composition by providing a splash or color and interesting shapes.  The bold, stripped pattern of the caterpillar now competes for attention with the elongated leaves, star-shaped blossoms, buds and even the tiny eggs!

 

Monarch Caterpillar and  Eggs on Common Milkweed
(Danaus plexippus and  Asclepias syriaca)
4" x 6"
pastel
SOLD