From Inspiration to Logo

On a weekend trip to northern Arizona, I made a beautiful discovery while strolling through the tiny mining town of Jerome. It's quite the tourist shopping spot, with winding streets full of artsy shops and unique boutiques, but I had a side agenda.

Although I did buy a few items, my mind was mostly on bug hunting. As I window-shopped, I also shopped the bushes and trees. Flowers were blooming, and it wasn't hard to keep looking at the beds along the sidewalk.

By the way, Shout Out to the Desert Pearl in Jerome! @desertpearljerome This shop/gallery showcases "Fine Art & Hidden Treasures"; the most unique and beautiful artwork from local artists and more. Follow them or visit to view the fabulous mixed media they house. I couldn't leave without some fun Cicada earrings!

Cute iridescent Cicada earrings!

I noticed a little pink petal in one of the flower beds that seemed out of place. As I got closer, I discovered it was not a flower petal, but a beautiful moth with transparent wings! And beside this poor creature, was another! This second moth, which I guessed to be a Tiger Moth, had already expired.

A heartbreaking, yet exciting moment finding these beautiful insects.

The sad part is that my first find was expiring as well. I managed to get some video and gently placed both critters in separate cups. Then, I quickly searched online to find out what I had discovered!

The Edwards' Glassy-wing Moth.

The Edwards' Glassy-wing Moth! I was so thrilled! And in love. I have only seen these moths in books or media, so my heart fluttered. Both species I found are considered Tiger moths, the other being a Garden Tiger moth—stunning!

Unfortunately, the life cycle for both of these critters ends in October. I was one lucky bug hunter to be there the first week of the month. I'm sure I never would have found these if they were able-bodied and unexposed. Once back in the Arizona valley, I immediately reviewed my video of the Edwards' Glassy-wing.

TIP for iPhone Users: Snap a picture and use the Info icon in the Photos app. Your phone may recognize an insect, bird, plant, or more! This is super helpful for finding out what wildlife you may have found. I certainly am not a biologist, but this trick makes me feel like one. Even though my insect was facing down, the app still recognized the pattern and colors. I immediately had information to do further research.

All I knew was I wanted to create my first "specimen" artwork with this unique bug. Plus, I'm more of a moth girl than a butterfly. Even though I feel heavily ruled by the moon, actually finding a Luna moth would've been too cliche, right? Plus, I had already created a Luna moth for my last logo. So, I began to paint.

My personal Luna Moth specimen.

Like a moth to the flame, I grabbed my iPad!

Using Procreate as my digital canvas, I enjoyed experimenting with different brushes. My love of textures and patterns was truly satisfied while creating this work.

Procreate is an exceptional software for digital art. It's affordable, easy to learn, and I truly believe that ANYONE can create art with Procreate and an iPad! But that's a post for another time. If you're curious, visit the App Store or https://procreate.com

Although part of me wanted to be strict and draw every detail I could find, I had more fun using my creative license. Each part of the Edwards' Glassy-wing moth sparked new creativity. The camouflage wings, fluffy thorax, and rose-colored abdomen were a delight to play with as a digital artist. Picking dusty brushes and mixing colors, I entertained myself for a good while.

The freedom of working digitally! You're never pinned down. That's a terrible phrase for a bug, but great for an artist.

I was so happy with the finished piece that I decided Beauty Bug Hub needed a new logo since joining Dream Big Art Gallery. The Edwards' Glassy-wing seemed fitting.

• It's Unique.

• It's Nature-Inspired.

• It's a Bug...even better, a Moth.

And a New logo was born. But not so quickly, the toying with design was another adventure! I played with the beauty of night, which I'm obsessed with, knowing the nocturnal nature of moths.

Just one of many designs I played with.

Considering I found it in a flower bed instead of under a porch light, the decision to go with greenery as a background fit the theme of Beauty Bug Hub and the story behind this discovery.

The charming elements of my old design will still be floating around, so don't be surprised when you see my Frog and Luna Moth making special appearances.

Of course, the Garden Tiger moth deserves special attention too, and I'm excited to see where it takes my imagination! There are so many pretty winged things; I'd love to capture them all in my artwork and maybe briefly in a cup. Catch & Release!

Thank you for visiting.