In this article, I want to introduce you to the works by English artist Mark Oliver. He creates his pets from all sorts of litter — old books, chocolate wrappers, time mechanisms, broken electronic toys and so on.
He has his own opinion about creating his insects. His intention is to create art that fascinates from afar and makes you smile when getting closer.
The insects are presented internationally, and are sold at various galleries throughout the UK, as well as by the artist himself. For the artisan, creation of insects is just a hobby, but if someone wants to buy them, he gives high prices for his masterpieces.
His huge collection is called The Litter Bugs.
Mark gives names each insect type, they are often based on material names from which they are created. For example The Prophet Moth consists of the Bible cover parts, Conductor Bug is made from old metal gears and, accordingly, copper conductors, and many torn pages of an old encyclopedia became the basis for the body and wings of the Moth Reference.
Magneto Beetle:
Reference Moth:
Prophet Moth:
Conductor Bug:
Must Fly:
Porthole Beetle:
Chart Beetle:
Frequency Moth:
Time Fly:
Fleeting Dragonfly:
Gullet Beetle:
Aero Bug:
Brake Bug:
Muscle Bug:
Strobe Fly:
Weeping Beetle:
Spade Fly:
Retro Beetle:
Lamp Fly:
Mark also sells 4 kits of "Do it Yourself" series. Each has materials from which you can collect your own beetle and hang it on the wall.
For example, some of such sets:
I introduced you to a small part of his work.
In addition to working with insects, Marks is a professional illustrator as well. Using paint, computer and collage, he works for advertising, editing, design and publishing. He illustrated many children's books, was awarded several prizes and awards in the field of children's art books.
I hope it was interesting.
All materials are taken from the Internet.
To be continued...