If you put the two together, it’ll be difficult to spot the real one. We’re talking about comparing the real butterflies and moths with the ones created by Yumi Okita. The only giveaway will probably be the larger size of her creations, as some of these winged specimens can reach up to almost a foot in width.
An expert in embroidery, this North Carolina-based embroidery artist is thrilling her viewers with her beautiful embroidered winged creatures. And it’s not just the finely-embroidered velvety wings that she creates with such accuracy and realism, but also the furry body, hairy legs and head bearing the eyes and feather-like antennae of these creatures that lend realism to her works.
Okita creates magical textures and colors by means of hand-painted fabric, embroidery threads, feathers, and faux fur. Add to this, lots of imagination and a keen sense of color, and she’s able to put together her one-of-a-kind butterflies and moths. For standard specimens, she uses the fabric of a 9.5-inch width. The insects themselves stand 3.5 to 4.5 inches tall.
Okita’s inspiration is the real butterflies and moths, which she emulates through her creations. However, at times, she does take artistic liberties in some of her creations. Though some of the wing patterns and colors she chooses are in sync with the real ones, others are different from the existing winged creatures.
What Okita creates is basically meant for decoration. These beautiful creatures can be displayed hanging from walls or on stands, as free-standing works. And it’s really a wonder how real these creatures look from a distance, due to the intricate weave of materials and vibrant colors.
Okita’s unique creations can be seen on her Instagram page and various other websites. These can also be bought from her Etsy shop.
Yumi Okita: Instagram | Etsy Store
