Entomology students at Kansas State University are preserving historic insect artwork. Learn about their progress and how you can support similar restoration efforts to ensure that the works of our predecessors are not lost to time.

By Dawson Christensen, Herman Griese, Rupinder Singh, Jacqueline M. Maille

Editor’s Note: This post is part of a series contributed by the ESA Student Affairs Committee. See other posts by and for entomology students here at Entomology Today.

The preservation of entomological history is an indispensable yet often overlooked aspect of the field. From intricate tapestries to varnished woodcuts, these artistic representations may seem antiquated, but they chronicle a pivotal narrative in the development of entomology. Unfortunately, most of these pieces of art have been forgotten or are in a state of disrepair. However, a new generation of entomology students are stepping up to ensure that the historical works of our predecessors are not lost to time.

As previously shared on Entomology Today, student-led initiatives at Kansas State University (KSU) are leading the charge to protect rare entomological materials. Among these materials are the works of the famed entomologist Charles Valentine Riley. Over 70 beautifully illustrated canvases of insects, which he once used as teaching aids in the 1870s at the university, are currently in possession of the KSU Libraries Morse Department of Archives and Special Collections in Hale Library. Regrettably, the ravages of time have not been kind to these art pieces: More than a quarter of the collection is in dire need of preservation, and even more are in need of some restoration. Yet not all hope has been lost, as Riley’s legacy has united KSU’s Department of Entomology students to raise funds for the next generation of curious scientists.

While the efforts at KSU have made great strides in preserving rare entomological artifacts, the need for support in safeguarding these artistic and historical works remains. The preservation of art requires collective action and resources; if you’re passionate about preserving the history of entomology, whether it be through C.V. Riley or an organization more personal to you, there are several ways you can contribute to these endeavors. Regardless of your background or connection to the field, anyone with drive and passion can take part in restoration and preservation!

Supporting Entomological Artwork

1. Donations. One of the most direct ways to contribute is by supporting or donating to ongoing fundraising campaigns. At institutions like KSU, donations play a pivotal role in covering the costs of professional conservation efforts. Fundraising campaigns can often be supported through direct donations, crowdfunding platforms, or purchase of related products, such as reprints, stickers, or books that feature the preserved artwork.

For instance, the Popenoe Entomology Club, KSU’s most well-known insect club, has already used creative initiatives, like offering reprints of Riley’s work and selling coloring books inspired by the artist’s illustrations, to raise funds. Donating to these types of campaigns, or even purchasing items created as part of them, directly contributes to the restoration and preservation efforts.

2. Partnerships with supporting institutions. The preservation of entomological artwork doesn’t have to be only an academic or departmental concern; it can become a community-wide initiative. Institutions such as museums, libraries, and historical societies can partner with universities and student clubs to develop a broader preservation effort. Many of these organizations already have access to funding and resources that can be directed toward conservation projects. You can reach out to local museums, national programs, university archives, or entomological societies to explore how these institutions can play a role in raising awareness and funds. Networking is a powerful tool, too: The more people you can connect with, the more people you can make aware of your restoration plight.

3. Social media awareness. In the age of social media, spreading awareness can be one of the most powerful tools for generating support. Sharing posts about the importance of preserving entomological artwork and its significance in the broader history of science can inspire others to get involved. Highlighting specific restoration efforts, like those at KSU, through social media platforms can garner attention and potentially attract donors or volunteers. While it may sound cliché, catchy hashtags can be a powerful tool to unite efforts and capture the attention of individuals who may not have otherwise recognized the importance of preservation. Most importantly, an active social media presence has the potential to engage large audiences. With ambition and determination, you can ignite meaningful support and make a lasting impact!

4. Fundraising events. For those who are especially passionate about the cause, organizing fundraising events can be an effective way to raise both awareness and money. Whether it’s a local auction of entomological prints, a private lecture by a renowned entomologist, or a public event where people can learn about the importance of preserving scientific artwork, these events can engage the public and raise the necessary funds for preservation. Many individuals and local businesses may also be willing to sponsor events, donate auction items, or provide matching funds to help boost the success of the initiative.

Entomology students at Kansas State University are preserving historic insect artwork. Learn about their progress and how you can support similar restoration efforts to ensure that the works of our predecessors are not lost to time.

5. Grants. For larger-scale preservation projects, applying for grants can provide a substantial boost to funding. There are numerous national and international grants available for the conservation of historical scientific collections, from organizations like the Institute of Museum and Library Sciences. Many entomology-related societies offer specific funding opportunities for preserving entomological heritage. Students, faculty, and professionals in the field can collaborate to write grant proposals that identify the historical significance of the work and explain how the funds will be used for restoration. Institutions, museums, and nonprofits can also take advantage of state and federal funding options designed for historical preservation, tying back into partnerships with institutions.

6. Collaboration between art and science communities. Another important avenue to explore is fostering collaboration between the artistic and scientific communities. Artists, art historians, and conservators can provide valuable expertise in the preservation process of scientific artwork. By hosting joint events between these communities, both sides can contribute their knowledge and skills to the project, contributing more to a common goal together than any faction alone. This collaboration can also help highlight the intersection of art and science, underscoring the importance of preserving both legacies.

7. Advocacy. Last, advocating for the preservation of entomological artwork at local, state, and national levels can play a significant role in securing funding. Engaging with local politicians, writing letters to policymakers, or participating in national preservation campaigns can help raise the profile of entomological conservation and potentially unlock new sources of funding.

So, Where is the C.V. Riley Restoration Now?

Glad you asked! We’re making great progress toward our goal of raising $10,000 for the restoration of C.V. Riley’s historic insect canvases. To date, the Popenoe Entomology Club has successfully raised over $7,000 to restore the most endangered pieces in the collection. While we are nearing this goal, the condition of the prints has deteriorated further since our last update. Despite this setback, the Popenoe Entomology Club remains committed to ensuring these invaluable works are preserved for future generations.

Considering these challenges, we’ve taken several key steps:

• Merchandise for a cause. We’ve launched products directly tied to the restoration campaign, allowing buyers to connect more deeply with Riley’s artwork. As mentioned before, the prints of C.V. Riley’s work and entomology coloring books are direct copies of his original composites. These offerings provide an opportunity for people to not only support the cause but also take home a piece of history, making the acquisition both personal and meaningful.
• Strategic partnerships. Collaborating with KSU Special Collections Archive has opened new doors for creative fundraising ideas. Thanks to the expertise of the Special Collections team, we were able to connect with a restoration expert and receive a quote for the much-needed work. These collaborations have been instrumental in driving our efforts forward.
• Social media outreach. Our social media presence has grown exponentially, helping us reach an even wider audience. Both the Popenoe Entomology Club (@popenoe_entomology_club) and the KSU Entomology Department (@kstateentom) continue to post engaging content on Instagram about C.V. Riley’s legacy. These posts are generating significant attention, which helps raise awareness and stimulate support for our cause.
• Art and photo gallery at the Manhattan Art Center. As a part of KSU Entomology’s annual Mudge Week celebration of entomology this year, we hosted our first-ever Art and Photo Contest Gallery in partnership with the Manhattan Arts Center, a performing arts venue with art galleries and educational programming. Students and the public were invited to submit their art and photos, which were then displayed throughout the week. During the Gallery Kickoff event, students from the club presented a talk about the convergence of art and insects and discussed the legacy of C.V. Riley’s work to an audience of nearly 100 guests. This event provided an interactive and creative way to raise awareness and elevate the C.V. Riley Restoration initiative to new heights.

With the combined power of social media, community engagement, partnerships, and creative fundraising, we are well on our way to achieving our updated goal and ensuring that C.V. Riley’s legacy endures for future generations. We can’t wait to continue sharing these milestones with you and hope you’ll join us on this incredible journey! Learn more about our cause.

The Popenoe Entomology Club at Kansas State University (K-State) actively promotes entomology throughout the community. In March 2025, the club partnered with the Manhattan Arts Center to host an insect art and photo contest as part of “Mudge Week,” a celebration honoring Benjamin F. Mudge, KSU’s first entomology professor. The gallery featured submissions from KSU entomology students and the public. During the Mudge Week kickoff event, Riley’s historical work was highlighted, and reprints were sold to support the C.V. Riley Restoration Project. Presentations at the event were delivered by (standing, left to right) Rachel Johnson, Navi Balthazor, and Tansy Hill. (Photo by Crystal Ly)

A Call to Action: Preserving Our Scientific Legacy

Preserving entomological artwork is about far more than safeguarding old prints; it’s about protecting the visual legacy of a scientific discipline that has profoundly influenced our understanding of the natural world. Whether you are a student, professional, or simply a passionate advocate for science and history, your contributions can help ensure that these precious materials are preserved for future generations. PowerPoints and iPads may have revolutionized the classroom, but these ancient artworks revolutionized the way we think about science: they still hold intrinsic worth that students deserve to see. Together, we can create a vibrant network of support that not only celebrates entomological heritage but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the rich intersection of art, science, and history.

Dawson Christensen and Herman Griese are master’s students and Jacqueline M. Maille and Rupinder Singh are Ph.D. candidates in entomology at Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas. All four are active members of the Popenoe Entomology Club and the C.V. Riley Restoration Committee. Email Christensen at [email protected].