'ARTHROPOD' is a series of illustrations centered on a gender-ambiguous child and their shape-shifting, multi-colored, possibly-imaginary, alien friend who is especially fascinated with the taxonomic phylum arthropoda. The entity escorts the child on field trips around the DC metropolitan and far-flung rural areas eagerly exploring the space with them. The series examines themes of childhood imagination, discovery, facing one's fears, attachment, and loss. From crustaceans to insects and especially arachnids, children in the western world have been socialized to fear the sometimes dangerous supergroup we call 'bugs', but looking at them through a scientific lens yields enduring, child-like fascination, awe, and whimsy worth instilling in future generations. 'ARTHROPOD' takes a first step in allowing adults and children alike perspective on the complex lives of our many-legged cousins framed by vibrant colors, relatable themes, and visceral emotional depth.