START WITH ART: Plate 1 Dissertation in Insect Generations and Metamorphosis in Surinam

We're starting our day by examining XX  pictured below. Take a look at the artwork then read the questions to the students/children in your life and see how starting your day with art can ignite creativity and critical thinking!

Title: Plate 1 Dissertation in Insect Generations and Metamorphosis in Surinam

Artist: Maria Sibylla Merian

Date: 1719

Medium: Hand-colored engraving on paper

Dimensions: 52.07 x 36.83 cm

Start with Art Questions: 

• Maria Sibylla Merian created beautiful artworks and wrote scientific pieces. What do you think the purpose of this artwork might have been? 

• Merian described the pineapple as the “most outstanding of all edible fruits." What fruit do you think is the most outstanding? What kind of artwork would you create featuring your favorite fruit? 

• Why do you think the cockroaches are included in the engraving? 

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