Sunday, July 19, 2009

Tango



TANGO, digitally created with ArtRage2, tin foil paper base


These partners are embraced in an intense natural dance.
Notice how the sperm whale dips his partner quite deeply.
Yet, the squid really wishes he would stay off of its feet...
...er, tentacles.


Yes, it takes two to tango.

I was inspired by a report in the news this past week. Hundreds of carnivorous calamari have been washing up on shore in San Diego, presumably accidental carnage from a massive hunt gone awry. These Humboldt squid aren't usually in that area, but with increasing water temperatures and overfishing, they're increasing their hunting territory.

As a scuba diver, I love squid. The way they glide underwater looks completely unnatural and magical, similar to the way hummingbirds fly captivates us. I'd probably be one of those idiots jumping in the water to see them.

6 comments:

justdoodleit said...

Wonderful illustration and interesting facts alongside :)

Jess said...

Now THAT is a dance that I would like to see! Truly inspired work. I like how the whale is depicted in cool tones and the squid in warm tones. Kind of a ying and yang thing going on there. I can't wait to see what's next! D'Rtist: I want to marry you. (again)

John said...

cool illu

Tessa said...

Superb - and what an original take on the prompt. Fascinating facts as well.

zainah said...

beautifully haunting !

Jen Elsner said...

Love, love, love this piece! I find squid (especially giant squid) beautiful, terrifying, and fascinating. Nice work.