WHY ARE PEOPLE SO OBSESSED WITH CICADAS?

Today's story is part of the ArtLab miniseries, specifically a video on Cicada Mania that I created as part of ArtLab back in 2021. If you missed it on my personal channel, here's your chance to catch up while I work on new videos. Additionally, I'm offering free shipping on all print orders for Patreon supporters, a fantastic way to support me and the Channel's relaunch. This holiday season, you can also give the gift of signed art through my Patreon. For the first time this month, I'll be doing a live painting stream for Patreon members, and more details will be announced soon. Stay tuned for an upcoming "Ask Emily" video where I'll answer some of your burning questions. Recently back from Vienna, Austria, I have exciting footage from art exhibits and more videos in the works. The response to the show's return has been fantastic, and I'm eager to bring you more content soon. In the meantime, enjoy this video on the intriguing cycles of life, where we find connections with seemingly distant aspects through shared experiences.

I'm Emily Grassley, and welcome to my art lab, where we celebrate the fusion of Art and Science and explore the wonders that emerge at their intersection. This is an exciting moment as we kick off our first episode in this brand-new project. Although I lack party poppers, my excitement is through the roof. The energy is contagious, and I can't wait to share more engaging content. Now, let's delve into the world of cicadas.

Spring 2021 was a significant time for bug enthusiasts, especially those captivated by the Brood 10 cicada emergence in the Eastern United States. The deafening symphony of billions of insects seeking mates during this event was hard to miss. However, cicadas are a global phenomenon, fascinating people for thousands of years. Even ancient texts like Homer's Iliad and writings from first-century BC poets highlight the significance of cicadas. These insects, with their unique life cycle, have inspired poetry, symbolizing themes of love, passion, and rebirth.

The cicada's life cycle involves spending the majority of their lives underground, emerging suddenly in massive numbers to mate, make noise, and then perish within a short period. This cycle has intrigued cultures worldwide, symbolizing purity, resilience, and survival. From ancient Chinese tombs to contemporary art installations, cicadas have left their mark. Western cultures historically viewed insects negatively, contrasting with East Asian traditions that embraced the symbolism of cicadas.

The late 1800s saw a shift in Western appreciation for insects in art, influenced by Japanese art and culture. In the modern era, cicada-themed art continues to thrive, with contemporary artists celebrating these insects in various forms. The cicada hashtag on Instagram reveals a diverse array of paintings, illustrations, pottery, and even tattoos inspired by these buzzing creatures.

In this video, I share my personal encounter with the 17-year periodical cicadas, specifically Brood 10, at Indiana University's research and teaching lab. The sheer number of cicadas and their overwhelming presence created a surreal experience. I explore the purpose behind their behavior, the incredible chorus created by male cicadas, and the ecological significance of their life cycle. Today, we've witnessed the impressive phenomenon of Brood 10 cicadas, gaining a deeper appreciation for their role in the interconnected cycles of nature.

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