Vespa Fairy Speedpaint

This is the first in a series of illustrations I'm planning. The concept is anatomically viable versions of common fantasy creatures/myths. Considering fairies are tiny and have insect wings, I decided to make them fully insect. This also eliminates the problem of connecting the wings to any kind of spinal chord. I realize insects don't normally have legs on the abdomen, but with insects, you can pretty much just slap joints on wherever, and your organism will be viable. This was an uber-quick speed paint, only took a few hours on and off, but I hope people like it. I did it for a gift, and I'm rather proud of it, but the next one I've been planning and working on for weeks, so it'll be even better. Still, I rather like this.

Fairies don't call themselves fairies; they are the Vespa race. Their countries are really just loose associations of autonomous hives. These hives are matriarchal, with females filling both the monarchy and warrior class, as well as childcare. Males are teachers, laborers, and also aid in childcare, but of a much lower stature.

Fairies are not magic. They ARE, however, very mischievous, and enjoy luring humans to confuse. Their stings contain a venom which can drive humans mad, and their songs, while beautiful, echo confusingly throughout their forest home. Tales or humans being driven mad by these songs are misleading; while attempting to locate the source of fairy song, they often inadvertently startle a fairy, who stings them. However, when mixed with powder derived from a rare fungus they cultivate, often called "fairy dust," the stings have a different effect. By itself, the powder will induce a feeling of high that feels like floating. However, when mixed with Vespa venom, it will produce a salve that can heal most poisons and wounds.