New York artist to display big bugs at garden

The work of an artist who specializes in giant replicas of insects is planned for display at the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden in Owensboro.

Organizers hope the super-sized ants, spiders, grasshoppers and praying mantises will attract thousands of visitors.

Spokeswoman Karen Miller says the “Big Bugs” display by New York artist David Rogers includes critters up to 15 feet tall that weigh more than half a ton.

Miller says the exhibit is making its first stop in Kentucky. It starts Aug. 3 and will continue for 13 weeks. At a cost of $150,000, she says it’s one of the most ambitious art projects ever for Owensboro.

The show is being promoted with a series of entertainment programs that include insect eating, bluegrass music, a Volkswagen show, a scarecrow parade and belly dancers.