Strong colour contrast and natural movement shape the atmosphere of this original heavy body acrylic painting by Canadian artist Jeff Dillon. Centred around a monarch butterfly resting on blooming salvia, the composition explores the visual intensity created when warm floral tones meet deep surrounding shadows and cooler evening colour. The contrasting tones in this piece make it difficult to look away. There is something visually satisfying about the relationship between the deep cooler hues and the warmth surrounding the butterfly and flower. The subject of this painting is the iconic monarch, perched on a lush blossom of salvia. The salvia flower is rich in nectar, and pollinators are naturally drawn to it for sustenance. People are often drawn to these plants as well, not only for their colour, but for the constant movement and life surrounding the blossoms throughout the season.
