DESCRIPTION
The basic frame of the butterfly is created using tin, which is powder-coated with a black finish and makes this piece safe to use outdoors. The edges of the frame are reinforced using thicker tin wire. The front of this piece is adorned in areas with capiz shell, an oyster native to the Philippines, before being hand-painted and sealed with a water-based sealant. The primary purpose of this oyster to provide a source of food, however, the shell is a sustainable by-product that can be used for decoration. The capiz shell subtly replicates the reflective qualities of butterflies in nature. The entire piece is lightweight and has an eyelet in the back allowing it to be hung using a finishing nail, command strip, or a push pin.
Due to it being a natural material, the organic colors of capiz come through as tans and browns underneath the paint. Starting with a base color of pearl white, the artist uses different techniques and splashes of color to craft a distinctive piece. The upper wings are created using capiz oyster shell, left natural to bring in different natural hues. The red base color is accented using brown feathering patterns. The lower portion of the wing is made of tin, textured to highlight the lines that stem from the body of the butterfly. Dimensions: 12in x 1in x 9in
