How does one woman's unique approach to art and nature inspire her work?

Genevieve Keeney-Vazquez hosts Ashley Worhol on "The Final Curtain Never Closes." Ashley's art features preserved butterflies and taxidermy, driven by her spiritual connection to nature.

She raises butterflies like monarchs and swallowtails, observing their lifecycles and behaviors. Freezing preserves the colors, while a rehydration process keeps their muscles relaxed. Ashley’s art, including imperfections, appears in shadow boxes.

Discussing taxidermy methods, she conveys her journey in the field over five years, showcased in various events. Butterflies hold symbolic value for her, seen as messages from angels or loved ones.

Key Takeaways

1. The careful and ethical practices involved in preserving butterflies and other insects highlight the artistry and respect for nature that goes into taxidermy. Techniques like freezing, rehydrating muscles, and using shadow boxes are essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of preserved specimens.

2. The deep emotional bond between Ashley Worhol and the butterflies she raises and preserves demonstrates how animals, even insects, can have distinct personalities and become meaningful companions. This connection enriches her art and gives profound personal satisfaction.

3. Butterflies hold significant symbolic meaning, often representing spiritual messages or signs from loved ones who have passed away. This theme underscores the comforting and guiding role that nature can play in human lives, providing both emotional and spiritual support.

4. Ashley offers practical guidance for nurturing butterflies, such as the importance of milkweed for monarchs and rue for swallowtails. This advice encourages more people to engage with and contribute to butterfly conservation efforts in their own backyards.

5. The integration of preserved butterflies into art allows for a unique form of creative expression. Ashley's participation in markets and exhibitions, such as the witch's brew and Dio de los Muertos, showcases the intersection of art, nature, and commerce, making her work accessible and inspiring to a broader audience. 
Each theme reflects a layer of both practical knowledge and profound personal and emotional connection, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of Ashley Worhol's work with butterflies and art.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Longing for nature, found solace in butterflies.
04:25 Breeding butterflies, releasing them, and differentiating species.
09:31 Emotional connection to nurturing life and love.
11:52 Kids scared of bugs, then fascinated by exhibit.
16:03 Cautiously maintain and observe butterfly species.
18:43 Artist creates massive butterfly art pieces. No humidity.
23:27 Multi-talented artist finds calling after injury.
25:23 Butterflies symbolize hope and comfort for families.
27:49 Prayed for specific house, saw orange butterfly.
30:46 Finding solace in a butterfly's presence.
36:34 Preserve symbolic butterflies in long-lasting art.
37:21 Build collection; market dates, contact for art.

Plan your visit to the museum today at nmfh.org and take a journey through over 30,000 square feet of fascinating history.

Subscribe to The Final Curtain Never Closes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Learn more about Ashley's work HERE.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.