The Cairns Birdwing is Australia’s largest endemic species butterfly and lives in the rainforests of Queensland state. Named after the city of Cairns where they are frequently seen. This particular butterfly is known by its impressive size (males average wingspan is 20 cm, female up to 25 cm) and striking colours.

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I was mesmerised by the vivid colours of this butterfly as soon as I laid eyes on it, I just knew I had to add it to my collection. When it came to actually painting it I was more than a bit nervous as the colour palette was very much out of my comfort zone. Glad to say my fears were for nothing and it was a pure delight to actually paint. I incorporated some iridescent paint into the brighter parts of the wings, so that when it catch the light it’s a little bit magical ✨

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• Acrylic paints on fine grain 200gsm cartridge paper and sealed with matte varnish

• A5, 148 x 210 mm, 5.8 x 8.3 in

• Torn edges (would look great 'floated')

• being sold unframed