Uploaded August 2025 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago

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500 years ago, bugs and critters began crawling their way into European art. Dutch painters and printmakers got up close to these "little beasts" and worked to capture every tiny detail. Their creativity fueled the studies of naturalists as they unlocked the secrets of the animal kingdom.

Our exhibition "Little Beasts: Art, Wonder, and the Natural World" is on view through Nov. 2.

🎥 Animation designed by Conrado Galves.

#shorts #nationalgalleryofart #butterflies