MTF clownfish in reef

Oil on canvas, 50x75cm

In clownfish, social structure is based on a strict male-female hierarchy. The dominant male and female form a breeding pair, but if the female dies or is removed, the dominant male undergoes a sex change, becoming the female. The next largest male then takes the dominant male’s place, ensuring the pair can continue to reproduce. This doesn’t make the news underwater or start a culture war — it’s just life.

This painting is part of Monkey Business, an exhibition inspired by the diverse expressions of biological sex and sexual behaviour in the animal kingdom.