French artist Hubert Duprat utilizes insects to help create his art. The caddisfly larvae construct protective cases out of materials taken from their surroundings, such as stones, pieces of wood, leaves, shells, etc.

OhGizmo! reports that Duprat decided to remove the larvae from their natural habitat, place them in a laboratory setting and provide them with precious materials. This prompted them to manufacture cases that resemble jewelers’ creations. They created tiny glittering ‘sculptures’ out of the beads, pearls, and 18-karat gold pieces.

Duprat describes the work as a “collaborative effort” between him and the caddisfly. By disrupting their natural behavior, he has transformed their activity into art.

You can see the artist discussing his work and view the caddisfly in action in the video below:

Hubert Duprat