“Playing Mantis”
by Blacksmith & the Painter
The “Playing Mantis” sculpture was created by Rob of Blacksmith and the Painter in New Boston, Michigan.
The metal sculpture is situated at Melody Park in downtown Capac, adding a touch of whimsical charm to the park. The sculpture celebrates the Praying Mantis, a friend to farmers & home gardeners alike. Its intricate design and captivating presence make it a standout feature in the park, celebrating music and nature.
About the Artist
Blacksmith and the Painter is a fully equipped blacksmith shop with cnc plasma cutting capabilities. Designing and building one of a kind items, sculptures and recycled treasures.
Why a Praying Mantis?
Learn more about the praying mantis at the Capac Library
Praying mantises eat various pests, helping control them naturally. They are seen as beneficial for crops, supporting farmers and gardeners.
The Praying Mantis is crucial in food chains as snacks for birds and spiders.
The Praying Mantis symbolizes courage, persistence, guidance, and patience in various cultures like Ancient Greece, Egypt, and Buddhism.
Some Native Americans see insects as ancient symbols, representing wealth, success, big families, and the circle of life in their art and writings.
The praying mantis is admired in China for its careful and deliberate movements, representing meditation and thoughtfulness due to its cautious actions. It only acts when sure it's the correct choice.
In Japan, a praying mantis symbolizes autumn and is commonly shown with gourds and mums, which are popular in fall.
The fragile looking insect is an emblem of military strength and courage in both China and Japan because it always moves forward to advance and never retreats.