Honors Projects

Abstract

Artists have been in collaboration with living and dead beings since the beginning of time. Whether it be in the supplies used to create a piece of art or as the subject itself, insects are and have been a key part of art-making for many artists throughout history. This begs the question regarding the ethics of using insects in art and whether this is morally acceptable. I take interest in this topic as an artist who takes inspiration from insects in my own art. This paper explores various qualitative research methods in an effort to bridge the topics of environmental philosophy and artistry. The research also showcases potential ethical and unethical examples of insect usage in artwork, in the past as well as occurring in the present. Through this study, I found the answer to be more subjective, rather than objective. By studying the broad spectrum of insects used in art, I was able to create a rubric that serves to guide the individual to discern whether creating/buying an artwork is morally justifiable to them. Breaking down all of the potential ethical ramifications of using insects in art can make the question of “Is this ethical or unethical?” easier to identify by the average person.

Major

Art – BFA in Art Education: Two-Dimensional Studies

First Advisor

Toby Svoboda

First Advisor Department

Accounting and Management Information Systems

Second Advisor

Ali Hoag

Second Advisor Department

Glass

Fourth Advisor

Shawna Babula

Fourth Advisor Department

Honors Program

Publication Date

Spring 4-27-2026

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Philosophy Commons

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