rhino beetles | indian ink

The rhino beetle is one of Africa’s most impressive little powerhouses — a tiny creature built like a tank, named for the magnificent horn the males use in pushing contests and displays of strength. Despite their fierce appearance, these beetles are gentle giants of the insect world, feeding mostly on fruit, sap, and decaying plant matter while playing an important role in recycling nutrients back into the soil. This artwork captures their bold armour and sculptural form in a beautifully raw and authentic way. The illustration was created using a hand-carved sketching stick cut from an Ana tree on the banks of the Zambezi — the same tree that drops sugary pods loved by elephants and antelope. That natural tool gives the ink work its earthy texture and organic line, mirroring the rugged beauty of the beetle itself.