Justice Barbara Norfleet

The composition presents a surreal tableau set against a backdrop of a fiery sunset over what appears to be a desolate beachscape. Two gnarled branches, resembling skeletal limbs, dominate the foreground, their forms twisted and reaching skyward. Suspended from these branches are two brilliantly blue insects, seemingly captured by thin threads or filaments.
Below this central arrangement, several larger insectoid figures populate the sandy ground. These creatures, predominantly grasshoppers or locusts, appear to be engaged in a complex interaction – one seems to be observing the suspended insects with an almost predatory intensity, while another is positioned as if poised for action. A smaller, darker insect lies prone near the base of one branch, its posture suggesting vulnerability or defeat.
The color palette is striking: the intense orange and red hues of the sunset contrast sharply with the cool blue of the suspended insects and the earthy tones of the branches and sand. This juxtaposition creates a visual tension that draws the viewers attention to the central figures. The lighting, while dramatic, also casts long shadows, adding depth and an element of mystery to the scene.
The arrangement suggests themes of capture, observation, and power dynamics within a miniature ecosystem. The suspended insects might symbolize individuals held in check or subjected to scrutiny. Their vibrant color could represent innocence or perhaps even defiance against their confinement. The larger insect figures, with their predatory stance, embody forces of control or dominance. The fallen insect introduces an element of loss or sacrifice into the narrative.
The use of natural elements – the branches, sand, and sunset – grounds the fantastical scene in a recognizable reality, while the presence of insects elevates it to a symbolic level. It is possible that the work explores ideas about societal structures, vulnerability, and the precariousness of freedom within a larger system. The overall effect is one of unsettling beauty and quiet contemplation.