This painting brings together two elements that are honored in Chinese and other Asian cultures; the orchid and the praying mantis. The beautiful Orchid symbolizes intellectual pursuit and represents dignity, integrity and friendship. Orchids are associated with the ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius who compared the orchid to an honorable man. One finds peace and learns patience while observing the ways of the mantis and gazing at the orchid. When our spirits need quieting, the mantis comes to us. Usually the mantis appears when we've engulfed our lives with so much business, activity, or chaos that we can no longer hear the still small voice within, because of the external ruckus we've generated. After observing this amazing creature for any length of time one can see why the symbolism of the praying mantis deals with stillness and patience. Living her life at her own silent pace, the mantis takes her time. Even the movement of one limb is not squandered. “Orchid And The Mantis,” is a digital painting.