The butterfly meadow

The meadow behind the StadtPalais is buzzing with activity. In just a few days, the manicured green lawn has been transformed into a wild paradise for butterflies, bees and other insects. The meadow now bears the name "Hermann’s Butterfly Meadow". But who is Hermann actually? 
Hermann is the large, bright pink butterfly that sits enthroned in the centre of the meadow. From 26 September 2020, he will accompany visitors through the escape exhibition “Stuttgart in lost time”, which we at VISUELL are designing. 
So that everyone can get in the mood for the butterfly theme in advance, I was allowed to design various wooden signs for the meadow. These signs introduce Hermann’s friends, i.e. different butterfly species. During the process, I learnt a lot about the colourful butterflies that I didn’t know before. 
Not all butterflies are the same. Of course, they differ in more obvious characteristics such as size, shape and colour. But there are also many other differences between the species. Some butterflies prefer the warmth, while others prefer to stay in cooler areas. So-called “migratory butterflies” even spend the winter in the warm south. However, there are also other tactics to escape the winter, such as hibernating in an attic. 
The clever fluttering animals also have many creative ideas to hide from enemies. The peacock butterfly uses an optical illusion to protect itself from its predators. When this beautiful butterfly unfolds its wings, the large eye spots become visible. To its enemies, the spots look like the eyes of a large animal. 
And many butterflies are also discerning when it comes to their choice of nectar and feed exclusively on their “favourite food”. The summer lilac, also known as the butterfly bush, is far ahead in the race. But thistles are also very popular. So if you want to enjoy these beautiful little animals in your garden, you should definitely make a note of this for your next visit to the garden centre. It’s well worth it!

Aline Wißmann