Noosa Art Prize 2026 Finalist · No. 5
Ray Besserdin
Imperial Jezebel, Delias harpalyce, Pieridae. Male
- Medium
- Sculptured handmade papers
- Size
- 56.6 × 56.5 × 9 cm
- Artist based in
- Avonsleigh, VIC
Price includes GST.
People's Choice Award
Voting opens at the exhibition launch on Thursday 8 October. Scan the code on the label at The J, or come back to this page to vote.
About the work
Delias harpalyce is simply an awe-inspiring butterfly to observe in nature. Living in the beautiful East Dandenong Ranges privileges me with the frequent appearance of this beauty attending the many blooms offered by Spring’s abundance around my studio, compelling me to include it in my insect series.
Interestingly, the dorsal (upper) and ventral (lower) wing views of the males - depicted here - are a complete colour and pattern contrast. The upper side is merely a narrow pattern of black on white, mostly around the forewing edge. Their commonest relative is the introduced Cabbage White, Pieris rapae. The background is inspired by the flowers of Eucalyptus species.
Actual wingspan approximately 60-70mm wide.
Sculpted from Tasmanian Creative Papers 180gsm cotton rag paper for the body. “Hairs” are from teased out tufts of handmade Japanese mulberry Water Drop Paper. Mounted on French Arches 300gsm hot pressed art paper. Archival ink tinted colouring.
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Collection and delivery
This work is on show at The J, Noosa, until the exhibition closes on 29 October. Works bought during the exhibition stay on the wall until then, and we'll be in touch after purchase to arrange collection or delivery.
Questions about this work? Email info@thenongallery.com.au.
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