Choreographed M. disstria caterpillars, filmed in time-lapse
When young, Forest tent caterpillars, Malacosoma disstria, remain in large groups with their siblings to avoid predators, taking a safety in numbers approach. To remain cohesive, young forest tent caterpillars follow pheromone-laced silk trails. Here, we isolated the pheromone in liquid form and painted shapes which the caterpillars subsequently followed; essentially a choreographed live painting. In doing following the trails, the caterpillars lay down more silk, reinforcing the trail. While filming, we thought of the caterpillars as young artists, learning to make their own art, relying on us, the choreographers. While caring for and filming the caterpillars, we questioned this seemingly one-sided collaboration. The caterpillars did not consent to taking part in this work, though their presence was necessary for the production of this work. Throughout the entire process, treated the caterpillars ethically, allowing the to take breaks and ensuring they were well fed, though ethical protocols do not exist for insects in Canada.
Exhibitions
Saturation: Luumi Event (Montreal, Quebec) - July 8, 2023
L’art est vivant?, Le Centre D’exposition De Val-D’or (Val D'or, Quebec), November 22, 2016 - February 5, 2017
L’art est vivant!: Maision des Arts de Laval (Laval, Quebec), November 22, 2016 - February 5 2017
Cross-Pollinated: Hybrid Art Abuzz: Towson University (Baltimore, Maryland), September 11-December 12, 2015
En Masse: FOFA Gallery (Montreal, Quebec), April 20 - May 29, 2015
L’art est vivant?, Le Centre D’exposition De Val-D’or (Val D'or, Quebec), November 22, 2016 - February 5, 2017
L’art est vivant!: Maision des Arts de Laval (Laval, Quebec), November 22, 2016 - February 5 2017
Cross-Pollinated: Hybrid Art Abuzz: Towson University (Baltimore, Maryland), September 11-December 12, 2015
En Masse: FOFA Gallery (Montreal, Quebec), April 20 - May 29, 2015
BTS footage of Caterpillar Choreography
