Have you ever imagined what a flying lobster might look like? It sounds like something from a fantasy story, but nature has already created a creature that comes surprisingly close. The thrift clearwing moth is one of those extraordinary little animals that reminds us just how creative evolution can be. This dapper little creature looks like it’s dressed for a special occasion with black or bronze colouring that gives way to tiny transparent gaps on its forewings, so it looks like it’s wearing lace. How elegant!
It is easy to see why this charming insect inspired me to capture it in my latest wildlife artwork for my book ‘Remarkable Creatures: a guide to some of Ireland’s disappearing animals’.
Wildlife illustration is not only about accurately drawing an animal. It is about discovering the character hidden within each species and helping people see creatures that are often overlooked. Many insects live quietly around us, unnoticed and underappreciated, yet they play essential roles in our ecosystems. By bringing them into focus through art, we can encourage curiosity, understanding, and a deeper appreciation of Ireland’s natural heritage.
Putting a Spotlight on Ireland’s Lesser-Known Wildlife
When people think about Irish wildlife, they often imagine animals such as red deer, foxes, otters, or basking sharks. However, some of the most fascinating creatures are among the smallest. Moths, butterflies, beetles, and other insects are often overlooked because of their size, but their lives are full of incredible adaptations and stories.
The thrift clearwing is a wonderful example of this hidden world. Its unusual appearance makes it stand out, yet it remains a species that many people have never encountered. Creating illustrations of animals like this allows us to introduce them to a wider audience, especially younger generations who may be discovering Ireland’s wildlife for the first time.
In my book, ‘Remarkable Creatures: a guide to some of Ireland’s disappearing animals’, I wanted to highlight species that deserve more attention. Each illustration is created as an invitation to look closer at the natural world. A tiny moth resting among flowers can be just as remarkable as a much larger animal roaming through Irish landscapes.
Bringing Nature and Art Together
For me, wildlife illustration is a bridge between science and creativity. A good illustration should capture the recognisable features of an animal while also expressing something about its personality and beauty. The thrift clearwing’s delicate wings and sophisticated colouring naturally lend themselves to an artistic interpretation.
There is something magical about transforming a small, easily missed creature into a detailed piece of artwork. The process encourages us to slow down and observe. Instead of simply seeing “a moth”, we begin to notice the patterns, textures, colours, and adaptations that make this species unique.
Through ‘Remarkable Creatures: a guide to some of Ireland’s disappearing animals’, I hope to inspire children and adults alike to explore the incredible wildlife that exists around them. Every species has a story, even the smallest ones. Sometimes all it takes is a closer look to discover something truly extraordinary. The thrift clearwing may not actually be a flying lobster, but its elegant appearance proves that nature has a wonderful sense of imagination.