Kathryn Dale Barton

June 30th, 2011

On butterflies.

The Ancient Greeks saw butterflies as symbols of the human soul. In Asian cultures they stand for joy and happiness. Elsewhere it’s change, rebirth, and transformation.

I have to admit I’ve never been too attracted to the butterfly. I think they’re pretty and acknowledge they’re delicacy but as I’m illustrating my first book about butterflies (“I’m a real boy!”), I have taken a new interest. They are truly beautiful creatures and I hope to capture their essence, whimsy, and brilliance as the images for ”What Do You Call Your Butterfly?” come together.

This children’s educational book will be about how to say butterfly in 10 different languages. It’s a simple yet expanding concept that involves history, culture, linguistics, and symbolism to name a few. Lessons for us all! I leave you with a sneak peak.