Is the beetle still, or is it “still” here?

“Still” presents an arresting, high-contrast view of an African black beetle rendered in rich charcoal on stark white canvas. The drawing captures a striking illusion of realism — from its glossy exoskeleton to the faint shadow that hints at depth — but leaves the viewer suspended in uncertainty: is the beetle alive, or lifeless? Is it resting, fallen, or mounted like a scientific specimen?

This piece invites a deeper pause — not just to admire its intricate detail, but to question our impulse to classify, collect, and control nature. In a world obsessed with documentation, the beetle becomes both subject and symbol — dignified yet vulnerable under our gaze.

Drawn in charcoal on gessoed canvas board, Still continues Francois Watson’s exploration of light, tension, and the overlooked creatures that coexist in our world, often underfoot and underseen.