Randi Thomson's Unique Bugscapes: Art from Nature's Remains

In a unique fusion of art and nature, Randi Thomson, a Winnipeg-based artist, has garnered attention for her innovative creations known as "bugscapes." These intricate dioramas incorporate preserved insects, animal bones, and dried plants, showcasing a distinctive aesthetic that blurs the lines between life and death. As she explains, "Time is suspended, and death doesn’t automatically mean decay" within her art, which serves as both decorative pieces and a means of personal expression.

Thomson’s journey into entomological art began with her background in creating terrariums, which she pursued for eight years. A pivotal moment occurred when her son gifted her dried flowers on Mother’s Day, inspiring her to combine these with an inside-out butterfly. This creative spark ignited her passion for making detailed compositions that incorporate various natural elements, including fox paws, snake bones, and ghostly cicadas.

Materials for Thomson’s artwork are sourced ethically from a variety of suppliers. She collaborates with a bug dealer in Quebec, a taxidermist who provides her with ethically sourced specimens from around the globe. "They either died naturally or were raised and bred for this purpose," Thomson emphasizes, underscoring her commitment to ethical sourcing. Additionally, she collects plant materials from her garden and local flower farms, ensuring that her artistic process is both sustainable and respectful to nature.

Thomson’s bugscapes are not just artistic endeavors; they also play a therapeutic role in her life. As a hairstylist, she finds that creating these pieces provides her with a calming outlet that helps manage her anxiety. "Crafting them helps me regulate my nervous system. I find working on them to be calming; it has been good for me," she states. This therapeutic aspect of her work resonates with many who find solace in creative pursuits.

As her reputation grows, Thomson has embraced opportunities to showcase her work at local markets such as the Winnipeg Punk Rock Flea, where she connects with a community that appreciates her unique artistry. "I’ve met people who don’t make me feel like a weirdo or an outcast," she reflects, highlighting the importance of community in her artistic journey.

The intricate nature of her bugscapes often results in commissioned pieces tailored to clients' requests, as long as the materials can be sourced. Her artistic process, characterized by meticulous attention to detail, has evolved significantly since her initial creations, which were more minimalist in nature. Today, her dioramas often feature a variety of elements, including honeycomb, crystals, and petrified wood, creating rich, layered compositions.

Moving forward, Randi Thomson shows no signs of slowing down her artistic pursuits. With a growing collection of materials and an expanding audience, her bugscapes promise to continue captivating viewers and fostering connections within her community. As she concludes, "They’ve gotten me out of my comfort zone, to go to markets and meet people." Her work not only serves as a testament to the beauty of nature but also as an exploration of personal identity and emotional healing.