Have you perhaps seen the spooky image of the Nun Moth, reminiscent of the 2018 horror film The Nun? *brrrrrr*
But you can find out here what is behind this viral sensation and what is fact and fiction.
Viral Phenomenon: The “Nun Moth”
In August 2023, a supposed photo of an insect with the face of the nun from the film of the same name attracted widespread attention on social media.
![MIMIKAMA](https://www.mimikama.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/image-192.png ""Well Moth": art or reality? A look at viral images")
A rapid increase in the number of posts on platforms like X and Reddit led many people to believe it was a real insect.
The art behind the “Nun Moth”
After extensive research, it was discovered that the viral images were not depictions of the real nun moth. Rather, they were part of a collection of artworks depicting imaginary insects. These artworks are the work of Richard Wilkinson, an English artist who draws inspiration from the works of natural artists of the 18th and 19th centuries.
The real nun moth
While the artwork is fascinating, the real nun moth (Lymantria monacha) actually exists and comes from Eurasia. However, she doesn't look nearly as scary as the viral pictures suggest.
The creative mind behind the picture
Richard Wilkinson , the artist behind the viral image, often uses elements from pop culture in his work. His series “Arthropoda iconicus” features imaginary insects that resemble characters from movies, TV shows, or other elements of pop culture.
Fact check at a glance
| claim | Fact check |
| The viral images show a real moth called the Nun Moth. | Incorrect. The viral images show a work of art and not a real insect. |
| Richard Wilkinson is an 18th or 19th century artist. | Incorrect. He draws inspiration from artists of that time, but lives in the current century. |
| The real nun moth is native to the USA. | Incorrect. The true nun moth comes from Eurasia and is not native to the USA. |
| The Nun Moth image was a limited edition and cost £50.00. | Correct. This particular piece of art was a limited edition and sold for the stated price. |
| The nun moth is a fictional insect. | Incorrect. While the viral image is a work of art, the nun moth actually exists. |
Conclusion
In the age of digital media, it is easier than ever to be deceived by images and stories. This makes it all the more important to research carefully and check the facts before passing on information or accepting it as true.
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Notes:
1) This content reflects the current state of affairs at the time of publication. The reproduction of individual images, screenshots, embeds or video sequences serves to discuss the topic. 2) Individual contributions were created through the use of machine assistance and were carefully checked by the Mimikama editorial team before publication. ( Reason )