Description
Busy Bees by acclaimed printmaker Adrienne Symes is a mesmerizing limited edition etching that delves into the intricate, golden world of the hive. This exceptional piece, number 5 of a strictly limited series of 30, showcases Symes’ extraordinary technical prowess and her ability to find profound beauty in nature’s most diligent creatures.
Symes masterfully employs the precise lines of etching to capture the incredible geometric perfection of the honeycomb and the delicate, dynamic forms of the bees at work. The subtle, smoky tones of aquatint are layered to create a sense of depth and atmosphere, suggesting the warm, buzzing interior of the hive. The true brilliance of the piece, however, lies in the application of luminous gold leaf. This exquisite detail illuminates the bees’ wings and the fresh honey, adding a breathtaking textural richness and a radiant glow that shifts with the light.
More than a simple naturalist study, Busy Bees is a celebration of industry, community, and the alchemy of nature. It transforms the humble bee into a subject of monumental beauty and importance. Each impression is meticulously hand-inked, hand-pressed, and individually adorned with gold leaf by the artist herself, ensuring that every piece is a unique and precious object.
A captivating investment for any serious collector, this work is a stunning testament to Symes’ innovative blend of traditional printmaking techniques with gilding. Busy Bees is a radiant statement piece that brings the dazzling, golden energy of the hive into any space
Unframed, measures, 30cm by 30cm.





