About Daniel Byrne

I'm an artist and graphic designer. I've always been a big fan of vintage Victorian butterfly/animal displays but one aspect always jarred with me in that the beauty was somewhat negated by the fact the insects had to die in the process. The display's always had a slightly morbid spirit to them. I wanted to see the displays magically come alive in the box with a frenzied movement, giving the piece life and little 'Chaos'.

I have a range of work crafting unique paper art pieces using insects and animals as my subject matter, butterflies being my main event. My artwork transforms the familiar uniformity of the butterfly specimen box or Victorian bell jar into a scene that has come alive. Injecting life and a frenzied movement into what are usually static displays. The effect is one of a mass of butterflies making a chaotic attempt to escape the confines of their frame.

I like to mix up the format by using various mountings/frames. There are of course more contemporary picture frames, but I prefer to use traditional Lepidoptera display boxes which are made to order. In some instances I have used renovated Victorian sash windows which add a touch of plausibility to the display.

I regularly produce commissioned work which allows me to work directly with the buyer so that their individual preferences can be taken into account. We are then able to choose the colour palette, choose a specific species and choose from a range of framing options.