Liquidambar styraciflua with Actias luna

One summer Professor James Castner from the University of Florida sent me a little box with 7 luna moth cocoons. When they hatched out in my studio, it was a magical sight to see their wings inflate. I hoped they would mate, but that didn’t happen, or they didn’t like the tree branches I offered them in captivity, so I began to release them into the wild. I hope some of them found mates before they died. Dr. Castner told me that he fed his moth larvae sweet gum leaves. Ever since that time, I have held a special place in my heart for sweet gum. There are many other moths and butterflies that feed on this rather weedy under-appreciated tree. The tree also has very beautiful five pointed starlike leaves. It is an artist’s dream come true.

Prints of some paintings may be made by request. Allow about three weeks for prints to be completed and shipped. Please use the contact button below if you would like to make a request.