This piece is a collection of life forms that are all very temporary in nature, either in lifespan or in their stages of transition. The flower, of no specific species, has found a way to thrive among the rocks in a small patch of soil, and has become a gathering place for other life. The life of the Madagascar Comet Moth is so short it does not have a digestive system or mouth. The Red Eft on the base only appears this way for a short time. This appearance could be considered a traveling outfit as it takes on this coloration and pattern to travel cross-country to find a new aquatic home. The piece is supposed to represent the delicate balance of nature; the title Vanitas refers to a style of still life artwork from the 17th century that is meant to remind us of the transitory nature of life.