WELCOME TO THE COLLECTIVE WORKS OF KATY MCMANUS
GOLD, COPPER & SILVER GILDED PAINTINGS ON CICADA INSECT WING PAPER ON WOOD PANEL/CANVAS
“Natalie Wood”
60X60 in frame
pastels & silver leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
Natalie Wood, a celebrated actress, drowned under mysterious circumstances on November 29, 1981 at age 43. Initially ruled an accident, her death has been clouded by speculation, especially
considering her reported aversion to water stemming from childhood trauma. That night she was aboard a yacht with her husband Robert Wagner & fellow actor Christopher Walken. Their
inconsistent recollection leaves many unanswered questions, to this day 43 years later, about the events leading up to her tragic end. But this incident invites us to reflect on the hidden
struggles individuals face beneath their public personas & in what ways might our unaddressed fears & vulnerabilities influence the decisions we make?
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“Wayan”
95X120
Gold/silver leaf & Oil on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
2025 JURY ART PRIZE FINALIST
Wayan, left to his own devices, quietly goes about the days tasks. Small actions going largely unnoticed but vital to the community at large. Aged now, wrinkled and cracked like the
binding of a beloved atlas, every line telling a different story. The most interesting maps of the most lines. What stories can he tell us? What webs he weaves!
“Kikimora Sisters”
60X60 in frame
oils, pastels, copper leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
2025 WANNEROO COMMUNITY ART AWARDS FINALIST
In Slavic folklore, the Kikimora sisters are mischievous sprites who summon wasp-like bugs to cause chaos. They dream of mayhem & mischief while sleeping for centuries, ready to unleash
their pesky powers & play tricks on humans, making lives more interesting with a touch of whimsy & mayhem.
“Amenhotep”
63X78 in frame
pastels/oils & silver leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
2025 FINE ART AT PERTH COLLEGE FINALIST
Amenhotep, the ninth pharaoh of Egypt's 18th dynasty, ruled from 1391 to 1353 BC and presided over a golden age of prosperity and artistic
brilliance.
Through strong trade ties, he strengthened Egypt's economy, and his legacy endures in the countless
monuments, statues, and inscribed stone scarabs he left behind. These artifacts reflect not only historical events but also a deep desire to be remembered. As we reflect on his enduring mark, we
might ask ourselves: what will remain of us, and how do we shape the legacy we leave behind?
“Cleopatra”
63X78 in frame
pastels/oils & silver leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
2025 FINE ART AT PERTH COLLEGE FINALIST
Cleopatra VII, born in 69 BCE, remains one of history's most legendary figures— immortalized in books, art, film, and Shakespeare's verse. A descendant of the Ptolemaic dynasty, she rose above
palace intrigue to rule Egypt and capture the hearts of Rome's most powerful men, including Mark Antony. Her reign was marked by intelligence, ambition, and ultimately, tragedy, ending in her
iconic death at 39. Though centuries have passed, her story still captivates. As we reflect on her legacy, we might ask: is it our choices or how others remember them that truly define our
story?
“Nefertiti”
63X78 in frame
pastels/oils & silver leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
2025 FINE ART AT PERTH COLLEGE FINALIST
Queen Nefertiti, famed for her beauty and mystery, remains an enduring icon whose influence still touches modern culture. As wife to Pharaoh Akhenaten, she played a central role in the radical
worship of Aten, the sun god, and mothered six daughters during their reign. Though her origins are uncertain, her legacy as a powerful and possibly divine figure lives on. Some even believed she
embodied fertility and grace in divine form. As we gaze upon her timeless image, we might wonder: how much of who we are is shaped by how we are seen-and how much will be remembered?
“Hatshepsut”
63X78 in frame
pastels/oils & silver leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
2025 FINE ART AT PERTH COLLEGE FINALIST
Queen Hatshepsut defied tradition, ruling Egypt for 21 years with the full authority of a pharaoh-the longest reign of any female ruler in Egyptian history. In her seventh year, she boldly
redefined her image, donning a false beard and insisting she be called king. Her peaceful rule brought a flourish of monumental building and prosperity. Yet after her death, efforts— possibly
by her stepson Thutmose Ill-to erase her legacy nearly succeeded. Still, history remembers her.
In choosing to lead on her own terms, she left a timeless question: how far must we go to become who
we truly are?
“Harper”
30X30 in frame
oils & pastels on cicada wing paper mounted on panel
2025 CITY OF GOSNELLS COMMUNITY ART AWARDS FINALIST
Art is the soul's sustenance. Like the body's need for food, our minds & hearts crave its nourishment. It's a vital part of being human, providing a deep-seated hunger for beauty,
meaning, & connection. We return to art again & again, seeking fulfillment.
“Mariposa”
60X60 in gilded frame
pastels & silver leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
In a South American village, Mariposa twirled through the wildflowers. Contented but she yearned for romance believing it held the key to her
creative transformation. One day, she encountered an artisan whose heart mirrored her own. As their souls intertwined Mariposa blossomed, becoming a radiant goddess of love. The villagers
thrived, inspired by her example of finding beauty in connection. Is love merely a fleeting flutter or is it the essence that binds us all in the tapestry of existence?
“Alice”
60X60 in frame
pastels & copper/gold leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
In the late 1800s, hat maker Alice poured her heart into her craft but increased demand led her to use mercury, instead of hot teas for processing felt. This decision raised her prices to ten
shillings & sixpence. Over time she experienced mood swings, uncontrollable laughter & forgetfulness, earning her the nickname “mad hatter” by the townsfolk. Now this phrase forever
links her art to madness. Alice in Wonderland may be thinking, is the pursuit of beauty an inherent aspect of human nature or a social construct that leads to harmful behaviours?
“Autumn”
30X30 in frame
oils/pastels & copper leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on panel
2024 DOYLES ART AWARD FINALIST
Autumn's gold & amber hues unfold,
Memories fuse with whispers old.
Leaves dance in fading light & air,
Ephemeral beauty sustains the season's change,
In autumn's grasp, I find my place.
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“Kazekō”
30X30 in frame
pastels & gold/copper leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on panel
2024 DARLINGTON ARTS FESTIVAL, EXHIBITION & AWARDS NOMINEE
Kazekō is a mystical being from
Japanese folklore born from an object possessed by a spirit. Legend goes Isukumogami are created when an object is imbued with spiritual energy over 100 years. They can take many forms &
exhibit strange behaviors.
This phenomenon has captured Japanese culture for centuries inspiring tales of enchanted objects & mysterious beings. Tsukumogami are often seen as benevolent spirits who bring good
fortune & protection to those who honor them. Kazeko can be found in your own home, held in any object handed down through the generations.
“Bai Quite”
35X35
Charcoal & silver leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
2024 DARLINGTON ARTS FESTIVAL AWARDS NOMINEE
Bai Qiute, a gifted painter, discovered a hidden lake of shimmering silver at dawn. Enchanted, she waded into the cool water, its surface reflecting her dreams & fears. As she swam, the
lake enveloped her, transforming her spirit into a tapestry of colors. Each stroke of her brush created a world where joy & sorrow danced together—an eternal blend of silver &
shadows. In our pursuit of brilliance, do we struggle to accept the darkness that gives it depth?
“Ember”
50X28 in frame
oils & pastels on cicada wing paper mounted on panel
2024 MINNAWARRA ART AWARD FINALIST
The codex, its parchment worn to a whisper, conceals cryptic contents. Its purpose & intentions unclear, it raises questions about suppressed knowledge or forgotten lore. Absence
heightens fascination, inviting beholders to ponder mysteries within.
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“Three Secrets of Fátima”
30X30 in frame
oils/pastels on cicada wing paper mounted on panel
2024 JURY ART PRIZE FINALIST
In 1917, three young shepherd children, Lucia Santos and her cousins Jacinta & Francisco Marto, received visions & prophecies from a Marian apparition in Fátima, Portugal. The Virgin
Mary visited them six times, between May & October of that year, bringing messages for the world.
“Hitori”
30X30 in frame
oils & pastels on cicada wing paper mounted on panel
2024 CITY OF WANNEROO COMMUNITY ART AWARDS FINALIST
In quiet solitude, I find solace in overlooked details, cultivating self-sufficiency & resilience by finding beauty in the mundane. I discover comfort in stillness, a testament to human
capacity to thrive in isolation. In this quietude, I uncover strength, a sense of being sufficient on my own.
“Lada”
40X40 in frame
oils & pastels on cicada wing paper mounted on pane
2024 CITY OF GOSNELLS COMMUNITY ART AWARD NOMINEE
Lada's enigmatic portrait weaves a mystique. A woman lost in a book with cryptic pages bearing 18. Wedding rings rain from the sky, but her own hand conceals a ring - a clue? Brushstrokes
cast a spell of intrigue, leaving viewers to unravel Lada's secrets in a world of wonder & mystery.
“Sekhmet”
60X60 in frame
pastels & silver leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
Sekhmet is depicted as a woman with a lioness's head with a fierce gaze. She embodies warfare and healing, representing the destructive and protective aspects of power. Gold symbolizes divine
beauty and immortality, often associated with Sekhmet. In ancient Egypt, It was viewed as the flesh of the gods, enhancing her significance and protective abilities. Worshippers presented gold to gain favor. What aspects of our lives do we seek protection for, and how do we honor the forces that
shape our existence?
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“Alala”
40X50 in frame
pastels & silver leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
In Indian folklore Alala represents the strength & resilience of women. She is celebrated as a protector, blessed by the gods with the ability to communicate with elephants. In her tales
she rallies these majestic creatures to safeguard her village from invaders, embodying a powerful bond between women & nature. Alala's courage & bravery inspires unity in the face of
adversity. Through her story we see the importance of guardianship & the strength found in taking pride in community. What does it mean to be a protector in our communities? How do we
recognize that role in ourselves?
“Kaelin”
60X60 in frame
pastels & gold leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
In a realm where courage is prized, the fierce warrior goddess Kaelin donned a helmet crafted from shimmering Koi fish scales, each iridescent scale symbolizing resilience &
transformation. As she led her army to battle she noticed a wounded Koi struggling in a stream. Halting the march, she saved the fish, recognizing its quiet strength. In that moment of
compassion she understood that true power lies not solely in dominance but in nurturing life. Turning to her troops, she posed the question: "Can the fiercest warrior find strength in mercy?
Does true valor demand the unyielding hand of war?"
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“Nagini”
50X40 in frame
pastels & silver leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
Nagini was burdened by a curse that destined her to transform into a serpent permanently. Unlike Animagi, who can freely change forms, a Maledictus ultimately loses their ability to revert to
human form, binding them to their fate. She roamed the world, savoring moments of freedom during her transformations while grappling with the fear of losing her humanity. She experienced the
beauty of nature seeking connection, understanding & peace with her fate. Her tragic transformation mirrors humanity's eternal battle with identity, choice, and the darker aspects of
existence.
“Valdrigon”
40X50 in frame
pastels & gold leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
Valdrigon, once a fierce guardian of the planet's gold was now trapped, living as Siamese twins consumed by greed. Mistaking his protective hunger to maintain balance in the world,
their thoughts swirled with insatiable desires for gold & power, plotting heists with feral glee. They siphoned wealth from the earth & countries fell into ruin. As they grew, they
realized that each coin claimed darkened the world around them. Embracing their inner dragon they transformed avarice into enlightenment by sharing their riches & witnessing the world
thrive. Can the fire of desire, once destructive, now ignite the flames of collective purpose? Where do we see that today?
“Maya”
40X50 in frame
pastels & gold leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
Maya wrote her dreams & nightmares on cicada wing paper, folding them into origami figures-cranes for hope, monsters for fear, crowns for ego & on occasion she would burn them. But
when the moon was full she would gather her scraps of paper & take them to a stream. Maya would immerse herself & release them, watching as they drifted skyward, merging with the
stars. This ritual felt like a conversation with the universe, illuminating the delicate balance between aspirations & anxiety. In our quest to accomplish our goals, realistic &
impractical, do we risk being weighed down by the very fears we seek to escape or is it that both are essential to our humanity?
“Metanoia”
40X30 in frame
pastels & gold leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
Metanoia is a profound transformation or change in one's mind or heart, often involving a deep & personal conversion or shift in perspective. It means changing your routine, friend circle
& extreme isolation. It means a lot of change quickly paired with blessings & curses. It originates from the Greek word "metanoia," meaning "change of mind" or "repentance." In a
broader sense, it can refer to a fundamental shift in one's worldview or a significant personal awakening, which is the key to inner growth.
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“Alabaster Aunties”
60X60 in frame
pastels & gold leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
In forgotten hamlets "aunties" were practitioners of folk magic, using their knowledge to help or protect their communities. They held the threads of knowledge using their skills to heal wounds
& hearts alike. They imparted wisdom to younger generations, ensuring that cultural practices & beliefs are passed down through storytelling, teachings & rituals. Their presence a
constant reminder to listen to the whispers of nature & the wisdom of our ancestors. In our endless race towards progress, how many of us have forgotten how to listen to the silence of the
woods & the stories of our past?
“Corvus”
68X127
pastels & gold leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on single/double wooden headboard
In Greek mythology, sisters Parrhasia & Rosa, born to River God Alfeus & Nymph Arethusa, shared an extraordinary bond. Their beauty & devotion were deemed divine by the gods,
immortalized in the constellation Corvus. The stars whisper secrets, symbolizing their telepathy and eternal love.
“Ebi”
50X40 in frame
pastels & gold leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
Shrimp or Ebi in Japanese in this case refers to a moment where one may feel quite small & vulnerable. The prey of many predators yet, "Ebi" signifies "life" or "to be alive." There's a
quiet strength when we feel at our lowest, never giving up. When negative things happen and we are made to feel lesser the only lower point is playing victim. To be alive is more than enough
reason to never give up even if flies are circling & things seem grim.
“Kuda”
75X100
pastels & gold leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
A woman leaves her island & urges her best friend, a horse named Kuda, into the chilly waters of the lake while clutching torn pages from her diary. Parchment documenting dreams &
nightmares twist into origami animals that spring to life pursuing them. Heart racing, she ran alongside her steed, urging it faster against the shimmering surface. With each stroke of the
horse's hooves, she could feel the weight of her past lifting even as the monsters drew nearer. Is it worth the risk of drowning ourselves & our most loyal companions into the depths of
what we fear most, vulnerability?
“Olokun”
40X30 in frame
oils/pastels & gold leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on panel
In Yoruba mythology, lioba is a mystical island of golden sands & waters & the domain of Olokun, goddess of the sea & wealth. Possessing "iloba" sand or water is
believed to bring good fortune & prosperity. Olokun's powers control the tides & fertility, symbolizing spiritual growth &
self-discovery. The island's journey represents one's inner path to self-realization & enlightenment. This legend inspires artistic expressions, philosophical discussions & spiritual
quests worldwide. Is it the pursuit of fame, fortune or enlightenment that drives us ultimately?
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“Althea”
40X30 in frame
pastels & gold leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on panel
Queen Althea wore a crown with shimmering orbs, housing the universe's weight. Each star, planet & every galaxy's spin pulsed through her mind, a dazzling burden. She ruled wisely as her
thoughts shaped reality. One day, she found a crack in an orb, threatening to collapse all existence. She mended it, restoring harmony but couldn't help but wonder: if reality could be so delicate could a single thought reshape the universe entirely?
“Echo”
40X30 in frame
pastels, copper & silver leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on panel
Echo, once a radiant nymph, was cursed by Hera to repeat the last words spoken to her. Her voice silenced, she became a mere echo of her
former self. Her legend lives on, a cautionary tale of language's power & the consequences of meddling with the gods' affairs.
“Psyche”
30X30 in frame
oils/pastels on cicada wing paper mounted on panel
In "Psyche", I transport viewers to a surreal world where memories & emotions are tangible. A woman reorganizes origami animals crafted from letters beneath the ocean's surface, evoking
contemplation on secrets kept and the weight of inner worlds. The tides could shift, stirring up secrets meant to remain hidden.
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“Pran”
30X30 in frame
oils/pastels on cicada wing paper mounted on panel
"Pran", a whispered promise of life's essence, echoes through the soul's chambers. Gentle waves whisper forgotten moments, revealing her past. As her soul unfurls, it connects her to the life
force within, awaiting rediscovery.
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“Hope & Glory”
40X30 in frame
oils/pastels on cicada wing paper & Guido Family-lace from 1914 mounted on panel
In a world where darkness threatened all, Hope and Glory, twin spirits, danced across the water, their light pushing back the shadows. Hope's radiant dreams inspired hearts & Glory's
brilliant deeds forged paths to salvation. Together, they rekindled courage in people by banishing despair. As they faded into the horizon they left behind a world bathed in light &
resilience. If Hope & Glory's light could transform a world how often do we realize that such change begins with the smallest spark within each of us?
“Carline”
40X40 in frame
oils/pastels on cicada wing paper mounted on panel
In Carline's presence, the air thickens with anticipation. Her being is a vortex, drawing you in with otherworldly gravity. The space around her seems to vibrate with unspoken power, as if
secrets of the universe reside within her realm. Entering her orbit, you're enveloped by mystery & transformed forever.
“Phoenix & Von”
40X40 in frame
oils/pastels on cicada wing paper mounted on panel
Two brothers, bonded by curiosity, find themselves half-stuck in the waters of understanding. One struggles to free himself, while the other gently guides him back to solid ground. They
reflect on their journey, learning from joys, challenges, and setbacks. With caution, they access remaining knowledge, using experience to inform their path ahead.
“Clara”
130X110
pastels & copper/silver leaf on cicada wing paper mounted on canvas
Clara rushed past flowers & bees as her mind raced with tasks. Always hurried by the changing seasons reflected in her demanding garden. She noticed a snail inching along a leaf, normally
she would remove the pest but today, she noticed its delicate movements slow yet deliberate. Intrigued, Clara paused to watch then days passed & still the snail persisted. In less than a
week the snail had eaten 1000 times its weight teaching her the art of patience. Inspired, Clara began to take her time, savoring moments instead of rushing through them. When is the last
time you just sat in a garden?