Wings to Float, Wings to Sting

Size: 16 x 20
Medium: Dye Infused Tempered Glass Print
Date: 2018
Edition: 50

This statement print on tempered glass depicts an image that takes inspiration from legendary boxer, Muhammad Ali. Metaphorically the bees and butterflies are symbols of Ali’s abilities that led him at the age of 18 to win an Olympic gold medal in boxing at the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome. Ali’s trademarked his famous saying “Float like a butterfly, Sting like a bee”. This composition on glass causes one to do a double-take when viewing the cryptic coloration, making the insects difficult to distinguish against this roman mosaic background. The butterflies and bees blend within the geometric patterns. Their ability to camouflage through pigments and physical structures mask their location, identity and movement.

The poem below accompanies this image:

Little butterflies, little bees,

Precious delicate little things

Little butterflies , little bees,

Wings to float,wings to sting.

They know when and how to go unnoticed.

All ye wanders, heed my warning,

Never leave it to be still and quiet or act as if you belong.

They will spot you out, so choose your substrate wisely.

You need grace to protect, and style to defend.

For these bees and butterflies know for when in Rome, do as the Romans do.