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For human beings, insects can be compelling, frustrating and awe-inspiring creatures, as well as objects of study and contemplation. Insects and Invaders in RAM’s Collection features works that shine a spotlight not only on insects—whether in representational or abstract form—but also on some of those animals that are the necessary “invaders” in their lives, such as birds, frogs and others on the food chain.
Insects are significant players in the world’s ecosystems and are the food source for numerous animals. In many cultures, insect imagery carries symbolic meaning. For example, in China, the grasshopper is connected to ideas of longevity, happiness and good luck, among other attributes. The scorpion is associated with healing and protection in Egypt, Tibet and Africa.
Selections from RAM’s glass, ceramics and wood collections underscore the connectedness of all creatures on the planet, especially when considered in conjunction with the other exhibitions currently on view. These artworks—not just “portraits” but also narrative scenes and abstract interpretations—highlight how artists use insects and other animals as a starting point for investigating the relationship between human beings and the natural world. In addition, they reveal how nature has served as inspiration and motivation for pattern, form and color.
MORE ABOUT THE EXHIBITION
Exhibition Notes
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Susan Bostwick
Two Birds from the The Offering Series, 1997
Earthenware
Racine Art Museum, the Donna Moog Teapot Collection
Photography: Michael Tropea, Chicago, IL
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The presentation of this exhibition at the Racine Art Museum was made
possible by: Presenting Sponsors - Karen Johnson Boyd and William B.
Boyd, RAM Society Members, S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc., The Hearst
Foundation, Inc., and Windgate Charitable Foundation; Gold Sponsors -
Racine United Arts Fund, The Richard and Ethel Herzfeld Foundation,
and
Wisconsin Arts Board; Silver Sponsors - Osborne and Scekic Family
Foundation and Real Racine; Bronze Sponsors - E. C. Styberg
Foundation,
Inc., In Sink Erator, Midwest Contemporary Glass Art Group, and
Target. 
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