A Bug’s Life

Emily Clark

August 10th–October 9th, 2026

I am a ceramic artist creating functional work inspired by the beauty of insects and the natural world. In addition to ceramics, I paint anatomically accurate insects in acrylic on canvas, combining artistic expression with an admiration for insects.

For the past three years, ceramics has become the center of my life. Every stage of the process is deeply fulfilling. I approach each piece with careful intention and planning, meticulously working out every detail before it comes to life. While not every piece is meant to convey a specific story, each piece is thoughtfully designed with a purpose.

As an insect enthusiast, I am continually inspired by the incredible diversity, resilience, and importance of bugs. They are essential to the balance of our ecosystems, and without them, life as we know it would not exist. Beetles, in particular, captivate me. Often considered one of the most successful groups of animals on Earth, their hardened exoskeletons have allowed them to thrive and evolve in remarkable ways. Beetles also make up twenty five percent of all life on earth!!

Some of my work invites viewers into a larger story. The hanging caterpillar, followed by the chrysalis, and the Luna moth displayed at the back of the room, is intended to guide viewers through the stages of metamorphosis—reminding us that things are always changing and there is always room for growth and transformation.