Parasites in Transit

Science

Gall wasps are well known for laying their eggs in plants (pictured here are specimens from an oak tree). After the eggs are laid, distinct growths form around them, contorting the plant into unique shapes. The reason for these growths is unknown although many theories abound, the galls do however shine a light on the wasps themselves as observing them can show the species, with more clarity and accuracy than observing the insect itself.

https://www.britannica.com/animal/gall-wasp

Method

The piece is an ink drawing done in Dundee Botanical Gardens. The piece was drawn en plein air from three samples of acorn galls that were collected from the grounds. The piece is 10 x 8 inches, drawn on 300 gsm paper.

Bio

Ellen Harrold (She/Her) is an Irish artist and writer as well as editor-in-chief of Metachrosis Literary. She uses painting, drawing, text, and textiles to explore physics and ecology through creative abstraction. She has recently published art in The Storms Journal, An Áitiúil, and Orion. She has published poetry in English and Irish in magazines such as Shearsman, Causeway / Cabhsair, and Skylight 47. She has published her first book ‘Aesthetics and Conventions of Medical Art.' with Boom Graduates. She can be found via her website, ellenharrold.art, on Instagram: @ellenharroldart, and on twitter: @ellen_harrold