SARAH GILLESPIE ARTIST

The absence of moths, once abundant in the glow of her night-time reading light, left Sarah with an uneasy sense of their disappearance. Searching for answers to the loss of these, and so many other insects, led her into an absorbing world of research, learning and observation. By trapping, studying, and releasing moths, Sarah has developed an intimate understanding of their decline, immersing herself in their fragile existence.

Sarah's mezzotint prints serve as a powerful reminder of this loss, highlighting the beauty and vulnerability of the many moth species that are quietly vanishing from our landscape. Every print is a labour of love, reflecting Sarah’s dedication to highlighting the biodiversity crisis. Through meticulous attention to detail, she conveys both the intricate beauty of these ethereal creatures and her deep commitment to preserving our natural world.

Sarah’s work has earned international acclaim, with pieces held in esteemed collections at institutions like the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and the Royal Albert Memorial Museum in Exeter. She finds it ironic that these very institutions, so vigilant against moths for fear of damage to their displays, yet filled with cabinets of pinned specimens, are now collecting her artwork, which mourns the loss of these delicate creatures.