Here are my collected notes on this illustration and how we quickly project how we “see” people through social media and how scrolling is a losing battle for artists as their work is hastily digested and moved on from. We easily can slip into romanticizing someone’s reality from what is shown within the posted frames of our modern era.

This illustration for example:

1. The "at first glance" or the half second someone looks and “likes” an image on IG before moving on: A young, handsome boy, who must have an uncomplicated, priveleged life, stands in front of a golden haze alongside dozens of beautiful lunar moths, an outpouring of flora, and a sword representing the power in which he holds. Basically, "Oh that’s Pretty enough to earn a like!”

2. But then for those who look with care over this piece, sees something is awry. That rare instance someone doesn’t instantly scroll past your work and traverse throughout the piece:

He is gripping the sword, which represents his power and influence, but not on the hilt, rather upon the blade. He holds on so tightly that it draws blood, bringing him pain even though it was meant to be his security. The perfectly positioned lunar moths facing the viewer are indeed gorgeous but are tragic creatures. They do not form mouths upon breaking free from their cocoon and starve to death in less than two weeks. So their beauty is temporary and fleeting. The fashion like the bangles around his wrists begin to look more like shackles. The flowers are a mix of textiles and patterns based on poisonous flowers that are deadly when ingested.

And lastly, the boy looks hollowed of his influence, longingly watching a common dusty moth flying about. It flutters just outside the confines of the frame, and the facade glamour within.

This moth is free.

The print itself is:

- 11in X 14in Premium Matte Paper Print (no gloss)
- Gold ink laid down by myself
- Individually signed in gold pen
- Protected by slipcase in sturdy golden tube