DESCRIPTION:

Inspired by the Victorian illusion of the “pepper’s ghost”, we employed an optical sleight of hand to bring butterflies to life within antique bell jars.

Developed from the often-forgotten tricks of illusionists from the past, Harris employs innovative and modern technologies to present his enchanting studies of butterflies interacting within the confines of the old glass jar. These delicate butterflies respond to the presence of the viewer in a charming flutter around the virtual staging within the scene.

DETAIL:

Parts that needed to be manufactured outside the studio were brought to the workshop for assembly alongside films, glass, props and electronics that had been put through multiple prototypes and in-house mock-ups until perfect.

I prepared, bonded, painted and tested the artworks before setting up and exhibiting it at numerous art fairs. I finally installed the piece into collectors’ homes across Europe with Dominic Harris.