The interaction of the Green Cross Belarus NGO and the Scientific Research Center for Bioresources of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus within the network research of invasive species became the basis for the theme "The insect world around us" to appear in the International Painting and Graphics Contest "In My Homeland".

With this theme, the contest organisers and scientists sought to draw the attention of young artists to the inhabitants of our planet, who are the most numerous and diverse class of animals. Researchers estimate that the total weight of all terrestrial insects and arthropods is about 1,000 million metric tons, which is twice as much as the weight of humans on the planet! Many authors listened to the suggestion and took a closer look at the surrounding microcosm, and then shared their discoveries in drawings.

Many of these works were highly appreciated not only by the jury members, but also by professional entomologists. On April 16, 2026, a viewing of drawings of various representatives of entomofauna took place within the walls of the NPC NAS on Bioresources.

According to Anatoli Kulak, the initiator of this contest theme and one of the review participants, Candidate of biological Sciences, a leading researcher at the Laboratory of terrestrial Invertebrates of the National Research Center for Biological Resources, the review committee evaluated not only to thematic hitting the target and accuracy of execution. They also payed attention to the organisation of the plot, creative intent and the level of its execution, including expressiveness, color scheme, technique and the ability to evoke positive emotions.

Despite the rather clear criteria, it was not easy for the academic team of entomologists to choose the best of the good. Most of the entries were in agreement, while some were in disagreement. In total, 15 works were selected for awarding with Diplomas "The insect world around us".

The cooperation of the project "In My Homeland" and the NPC of the National Academy of Sciences for Bioresources continues: the organisers of the contest and the scientific staff are discussing new themes for the painting and graphics competition.