WhoIstheFairestofThemAll Barbara Norfleet

Here we observe a meticulously rendered depiction of two praying mantises engaged in a complex interaction. The composition is dominated by the foreground insect, positioned centrally and angled towards the viewer, its elongated body and prominent forelegs immediately drawing attention. Its coloration – a muted green with subtle orange markings on the wings – is realistically portrayed, suggesting an attempt at scientific accuracy rather than purely aesthetic expression.
The background establishes a naturalistic setting comprised of rocks and foliage, rendered in warm earth tones that contrast with the cool hues of the insects. The lighting is carefully managed to highlight the textures of both the mantises exoskeletons and the surrounding environment, creating a sense of depth and three-dimensionality. A thorny branch extends diagonally across the upper portion of the frame, adding visual complexity and hinting at potential danger within this natural habitat.
The subtext embedded in this work revolves around themes of predation and vulnerability. The posture of the foreground mantis – its forelegs raised in a defensive or predatory stance – suggests an imminent encounter. The presence of another mantis further back implies a possible struggle for dominance, or perhaps even a mating ritual, both scenarios inherently linked to survival within the insect world.
The artist’s choice to focus on these creatures, often perceived as alien or unsettling, invites contemplation about beauty and danger existing in tandem within nature. The meticulous detail afforded to their depiction elevates them beyond mere insects; they become subjects worthy of close observation and appreciation. Theres a quiet tension present – a stillness that belies the potential for swift action and underscores the precariousness of life even among creatures seemingly so removed from human experience.