From the Rainforest to the Easel: Drawing the Purple Grasshopper”

The natural world is full of tiny treasures, and few are as dazzling as the Titanacris albipes, the Purple Grasshopper from Peru. With iridescent violet wings and elegant anatomy, this species embodies both strength and beauty — a perfect muse for artists and nature enthusiasts alike.

A New Zoom Workshop for Nature Artists- November 18, 2025 1:30-4:30 ET

In my upcoming online class, “Drawing & Painting the Grasshopper,” we’ll study this extraordinary insect up close, exploring its structure, color, and intricate details. I’ve been invited to demonstrate how to use colored pencils on drafting film (Dur-lar) — a technique that creates luminous layers and beautiful translucent effects. Grasshoppers are an ideal subject for this method, and you can join me in working on Dur-lar or use any medium you prefer.

Students will learn how to:

• Understand grasshopper anatomy for accurate illustration.
• Layer and blend colors to create lifelike iridescence.
• Explore texture and light on translucent film.
• Combine observation, technique, and creativity for dynamic results.
• Create unique and decorative backgorounds

Inspired by My Travels to Peru

During my recent art and photography tour to Peru, I was captivated by the country’s biodiversity — from Amazonian butterflies to Andean hummingbirds. The Titanacris albipes became a symbol of that inspiration, and I’m thrilled to bring a piece of that journey into this class. I’ll also be leading another Peru adventure soon, offering artists and photographers the chance to experience this magical landscape firsthand. (We are doing it again in July 2026…. Join us)

Learn, Draw, and Support Ethical Specimens

As always, we’ll be working with BicBugs’ ethically sourced insect specimens, giving students the opportunity to observe real structures with scientific accuracy and artistic flair.

Join me live on Zoom!
Each participant will receive handouts, a class recording (available for 90 days), and a special BicBugs student discount.

Register Here

Let’s celebrate the brilliance of insects and bring the beauty of the rainforest into our art — one grasshopper at a time!