The Lepidopterist

The Lepidopterist

“The lepidopterist displays his captured specimens for pleasure and gratification.”

Nic Gaunt transposes the butterfly in favour of the human body. 

By creating a visually alluring diorama to display the subject we are disarmed by the sumptuousness of the image.

We become aware of the glass pressing down on the bodies and condensation forming on the inner surface. 

Our experience turns from one of initial delectation to morbid curiosity and an innate fear of entrapment. Employing the human figure presumes that we can relate to the claustrophobia of the encased specimen. By encasing the human form behind glass the viewer is invited to imagine themselves in the position of the captive. To role reverse. 

The level of anxiety experienced by being trapped can be overwhelming in whatever form it takes. A city, an apartment, a cell, an open space or even one’s mind. Many triggers can ignite this emotion and Gaunt’s work implores us to confront that subconscious angst