Cicada

In Plato’s Phaedrus, Socrates recounts that cicadas were once men so mesmerized by the Muses' invention of music that they sang without eating until they died.

Moved by their devotion, the Muses turned them into cicadas—beings exempt from hunger who spend their lives singing and reporting to the gods which humans honor philosophy and truth. Socrates shared the myth to warn Phaedrus against sleeping in the midday heat, urging him to pursue wisdom instead of being reported to the Muses as lazy.

~ Created in 2026 (16" x 16")

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Inspired by the ancient Greek myth of cicadas in Plato’s Phaedrus, this atmospheric oil painting features rich violet, pink, and indigo hues with expressive, dreamlike brushwork. Blending mythology, music, and philosophy, this symbolic artwork makes a captivating addition to contemporary art collections and thoughtfully curated interiors.

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ABOUT THE CREATOR

Abel Gatbonton is a visual artist based in Mandaluyong, Philippines whose practice spans painting and tattooing.

Abel’s work moves across a range of styles and subjects, from abstract impressionistic landscapes and cityscapes to ‘plein air’ and studio paintings, as well as surreal compositions and illustrative works.