North Carolina Arboretum Goes Outside the Box with Big Bugs Display in Asheville
The North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville is currently hosting a fascinating exhibit called “Bugs: Outside the Box” that is sure to captivate visitors of all ages. This unique display features a collection of giant, scientifically accurate insect sculptures that aim to educate the public and shine a spotlight on the incredible world of bugs.
The exhibit opened on May 25, and runs through September 8 at the NC Arboretum in Asheville.
One of the standout features of the exhibit is the attention to detail in each sculpture. The artists have meticulously crafted these oversized insects to showcase their intricate anatomy and unique characteristics. Visitors can get up close and personal with these giant bugs, marveling at the fine details that are often overlooked in their tiny real-life counterparts.
“Where can you see a butterfly with a five-foot wingspan, or a longhorn beetle with antennae more than twelve feet across?” the Arboretum said on its exhibition listing. “The answers can be found amongst the enormous sculptures on display in BUGS: Outside the Box!”
According to the Arberetum, naturalist Dan Lazar, who teaches the Arboretum’s Ecology of Insects class, will be leading exhibit walk-throughs to provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the insects on display.
The exhibit features giant versions of several bugs, including a long-arm beetle more than 10 feet tall. The large versions of the bugs allow you to see just how fascinating the creatures are. But don’t worry, the life-sized versions are on display next to them to help remove any fear of you having been shrunk down to tiny size.
So, if you are an insect enthusiast “Bugs: Outside the Box” at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville is a must-see exhibit. The giant, scientifically accurate sculptures, combined with expert-led walk-throughs and the Arboretum’s stunning natural setting, make for an unforgettable experience that is both entertaining and educational.
Ticket and parking information can be found here.
