Botanical arts Books

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThroughout history flowers have been an integral part of human survival and culture – as food, for medicine, to express feelings, as symbols, to commemorate and celebrate, and to decorate. Their shapes, colors, scents and textures have always attracted us, as they do animals and insects. Flowers are used as luxury spices (saffron), and as coloring and flavoring agents – marigolds fed to chickens make eggs more yellow and lavender was Elizabeth I''s favorite flavor of jam. Flowers are full of symbolic meaning: violets represent modesty, daises purity and daffodils unrequited love. And they have always played an important role in culture through myths and legends, literature and the decorative arts. This delightful new book brings together 100 of the world''s flowers to tell their remarkable stories. Each flower is richly illustrated in color and accompanied by facts about each species and what role it has played in our culture and history.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAdd the magic and wonder of the forest to your walls with these 45 beautiful and intriguing illustrations of mushrooms in three convenient sizes to fit any space. Turn any room into an enchanting place to escape with these stunning, ready-to-frame prints that conjure the idyllic feeling of a hidden, ancient forest where fae and other creatures could be hiding under any flora. Inside you’ll find illustrations of forty-five different species of mushrooms from Chicken of the Woods, Lion’s Mane, Oyster, and Morel to Chanterelles, Puffball, Cordyceps, and more. Each unique illustration was created by Eisner and Ringo Award–winning artist Sara Richard. The intricately detailed prints are perfect for any type of space whether you’re decorating your first apartment or updating the walls in your dream home. Combine multiple prints to create a gallery of gorgeous illustrations. Featuring three different sizes—8x10, 5x7, and 4x6—these prints are easy to frame to beautify any space.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAnyone can produce beautiful botanical paintings with this, the first guided watercolour book. Printed on specialist watercolour art paper and containing step-by-step tutorials, this book is the perfect introduction to producing exquisite illustrations. 15 works by Rachel Pedder-Smith have been recreated by the artist in outline-only form, ready for you to paint, along with recommended colour palettes and artworks to copy. Follow author Rachel's tips for layering colour, or follow the outlines of single stems, blooms or more intricate designs, and create a gallery of floral images. The paper is easily removed, taped down and painted on directly, meaning you can display your colourful creations. If you're feeling more experimental, this paper will also work beautifully with other media such as acrylic paint, artists' pencils and fibre-tip pens.

Read more less

Book Synopsis"Wonderful stories and in-depth information you will normally never find in books about trees." - Piet Oudolf, Landscape Designer and creator of the planting design for New York's High Line"Entwining fascinating facts about 100 trees with inspiring stories of their importance to ancient civilizations, trade, religious and pagan beliefs, wellbeing and medicinal uses over the ages, this delightful and well-researched book provokes curiosity on every page." - Dr. Alexandra Wagstaffe, Eden Project LearningThe Story of Trees takes the reader on a visual journey from some of the earliest known tree species on our planet to the latest fruit cultivars.The chosen trees have all had a profound effect on the planet and humankind. Starting with the Ginkgo Biloba, fossils of which date back 270 million years, we learn about how trees came to be integral to the development of our species, and how specific trees have become important religious, political, and cultural symbols.With beautiful illustrations by Thibaud Herem and fascinating botanical facts and figures, this book will appeal to tree lovers from all over the world."Within these pages, we hope to inform and inspire those who already have a love of trees, as well as those who otherwise may have taken them for granted. The Story of Treesis our story, but also that of our ancestors. It is about our relationship with some of the world's most important trees, both on a local scale and globally. With so many trees to choose from, we have endeavored to feature those that have been, and in most cases continue to be, of cultural and practical value to humankind." - From the Introduction of The Story of TreesTrade Review"A fascinating book on just how trees have changed the way we live." -- - Sunday Express"An engaging, digestible take on the tree anthology; drawing together arboreal histories, attractive illustrations and a few surprises along the way." -- - Gardens Illustrated"Well researched and full off interesting facts and figures linking history, folklore, economics and horticulture (...) a fascinating and attractive read." -- - RHS The Plant Review

Read more less

Book SynopsisNew title in exciting series of sturdy, square-box 1000-piece jigsaw puzzles from Flame Tree, featuring powerful and popular works of art and providing a challenge for adult puzzlers of all levels!Part of an exciting series of sturdy, square-box 1000-piece jigsaw puzzles from Flame Tree, featuring powerful and popular works of art. This new jigsaw will satisfy your need for a challenge, with Bex Parkin''s Waterlily Pond. This 1000 piece jigsaw is intended for adults and children over 13 years. Not suitable for children under 3 years due to small parts. Finished Jigsaw size 735 x 510mm/29 x 20 ins. Includes an A4 poster for reference.Bex Parkin is an incredibly talented illustrator. Having spent many years based in London working in a range of artistic jobs, she now lives in rural Staffordshire. Her passion for print, pattern and colour was largely inspired by her work sourcing vintage and antique textiles for the fashion industry, which can b

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Florilegium Society at The Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney was formed in 2005 to create a unique collection of contemporary botanical paintings of significant plants that represent the history of the living collections of the Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust. This beautifully produced book is a celebration of 200 years of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney, showcasing the botanical richness of these Gardens through the eyes of 64 exceptional Australian and international botanical artists. The stunning botanical paintings are presented chronologically according to the date of each species’ introduction to the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney and its Blue Mountains Garden, Mt Tomah and the Australian Garden, Mt Annan. With paintings of indigenous Australian plants as well as more exotic species from Asia, the Americas, Africa and Europe, The Florilegium truly reflects the diversity of the three Gardens. Each painting is accompanied by a botanical description written by Louisa Murray and a historic overview by Colleen Morris detailing the discovery of the featured species, its historic and cultural significance and introduction to the Gardens. With a foreword by Dr Shirley Sherwood OBE, preface by Dr Brett Summerell, RBG Sydney Director of Science and Conservation, and an introductory essay by Beverly Allen. The accompanying exhibition of the same name runs from February – August 2018 in the Shirley Sherwood Gallery of Botanical Art, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. ‘The standard of the plant portraits is so high and the text so illuminating that this will make a memorable book.’ Dr Shirley Sherwood OBE

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis stunning new series of pocketbooks from Kew offer a snapshot into the diverse and beautiful world of plants. Each book lavishly showcases choice examples from individual plant groups or collections, beginning with the popular plant groups Palms and Cacti. The Library, Art and Archives at Kew is one of the most extensive botanical libraries in the world, with the oldest item dating back to the 1370s. In this new pocketbook series from Kew, each book presents 40 botanical paintings from the collection, illustrating the variety within each plant group, as well as the diversity of the collection and artistic styles. An introductory chapter by a Kew expert provides an overview of palms, and extended captions accompany each painting. The luxury finish on these books make them a must-have gift item, printed on uncoated paper and with a cloth and foil finish.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis stunning new series of pocketbooks from Kew offer a snapshot into the diverse and beautiful world of plants. Each book lavishly showcases choice examples from individual plant groups or collections, beginning with the popular plant groups Palms and Cacti. The Library, Art and Archives at Kew is one of the most extensive botanical libraries in the world, with the oldest item dating back to the 1370s. In this new pocketbook series from Kew, each book presents 40 botanical paintings from the collection, illustrating the variety within each plant group, as well as the diversity of the collection and artistic styles. An introductory chapter by a Kew expert provides an overview of cacti, and extended captions accompany each painting. The luxury finish on these books make them a must-have gift item, printed on uncoated paper and with a cloth and foil finish.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis stunning series of pocketbooks from Kew offers a snapshot into the diverse and beautiful world of plants. Each book lavishly showcases choice examples from individual plant groups or collections, and this new title showcases Japanese plants, from chrysanthemums, to cherry blossom, camellia and maples. Published to coincide with the new Japan festival at Kew Gardens in October 2020. The Library, Art and Archives at Kew is one of the most extensive botanical libraries in the world, with the oldest item dating back to the 1370s. In this pocketbook series from Kew, each book presents 40 botanical paintings from the collection, illustrating the variety within each plant group, as well as the diversity of the collection and artistic styles. An introductory chapter by a Kew expert provides an overview of the plant group or theme, and extended captions accompany each painting. The luxury finish on these books make them a must-have gift item, printed on uncoated paper and with a cloth and foil finish.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis stunning series of pocketbooks from Kew offers a snapshot into the diverse and beautiful world of plants and fungi. Each book lavishly showcases choice examples from different groups or collections.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis stunning series of pocketbooks from Kew offers a snapshot into the diverse and beautiful world of plants and fungi. Each book lavishly showcases choice examples from different groups or collections. Hot, spicy, aromatic, zingy, floral, earthy and fragrant, herbs and spices are integral to our daily meals and drinks, delivering flavour and colour in abundance. Kew Pocketbooks: Herbs and Spices offers a glimpse into this lively world with 40 stunning paintings form the Kew archives, showcasing the plant forms of our favourite herbs and spices, some more familiar than others, such as the verdant bunches of parsley and coriander, to the vibrant red of cinnamon leaves and the yellow flowers of ginger.

Read more less

Since the introduction of heat into homes, making it possible to keep potted plants alive, people have been obsessively collecting and caring for house plants. These now common additions to any well-designed space add vibrancy and colour while simultaneously instilling a sense of tranquillity. This new title in the Kew Pocketbooks series is a celebration of the integration of plants into our living spaces, showcased through 40 stunning paintings from the Kew archives. An introductory chapter by Kew expert Bryony Langley provides an overview of the plant group, and extended captions accompany each painting.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe characteristics of watercolour naturally complement botanical art and this beautiful book shows you how to make the most of this versatile medium. It starts by guiding you through the complexities of painting flowers, with advice on materials and colour mixing, using colour to achieve translucency and clarity, building confidence with step-by-step examples and the importance of observation and botancial accuracy. It then creates detailed and beautiful compositions for the more experienced botanical artist. This new book has ideas and tips on composition and how to include animal life and is structured by season to include a range of flowers and plants.

Read more less

Book SynopsisArtists have always been captivated by the colour, beauty and exoticism of flowers. Their fragility is a reminder to seize the day, whilst their rich sensory appeal jolts us into the present moment. In many cultures, they've become a fertile metaphor for life's milestones whether joyful or sad. Bloom explores the way art, flowers and emotion entwine, featuring over one hundred works from artists including Tracey Emin, David Hockney, Winifred Nicholson and Andy Warhol. Taking you on a surprising journey through love, sex, death and everything in between -- Bloom shows that there's a lot more to flowers than simply looking pretty.

Read more less

Book SynopsisClose-up photos of plump apricots, juicy mangoes, crisp lettuce … these are familiar to us all through cookery books and garden guides. But seeing fruit and vegetables as detailed art, viewed through eighteenth-century eyes, is something very different – and more interesting. Thanks to intrepid explorers and plant-hunters, Britain and the rest of Europe have long enjoyed a wide and wonderful array of fruit and vegetables. Some wealthy households even created orangeries and glasshouses for tender exotics and special pits in which to raise pineapples, while tomatoes, sweetcorn and runner beans from the New World expanded the culinary repertoire. This wealth of choice attracted interest beyond the kitchen and garden. In the 1730s, a prosperous Bavarian apothecary produced the first volume of a comprehensive A to Z of all available plants, meticulously documented, and lavishly illustrated by botanical artists. 'A Cornucopia of Fruit & Vegetables' is a glimpse into his world. It features exquisite illustrations of the edible plants in his historic treasury, allowing us to enjoy the sight of swan-necked gourds and horned lemons, smile at silkworms hovering over mulberries and delight at the quirkiness of ‘strawberry spinach’ … a delicious medley of garden produce and exotics that will capture the imagination of gardeners and art-lovers alike.Trade Review"A mouth-wateringly beautiful collection of 18th-century botanical engravings, featuring both common and unusual fruits and vegetables. Of great historical and artistic interest, gardeners will also find plenty of inspiration." * The Bookseller *Table of ContentsContents Introduction Fruit and Vegetables Further Reading Index of Plates

Read more less

Book SynopsisDiscover a whole new realm of botanical painting - the natural life forms that coexist with flowering plants, revealed in exquisite detail. Traditionally, botanical art has focused on the flowers, leaves and form of plants. They are depicted in solitary glory on a page, divorced from the life forms that live alongside them in nature. But award-winning UK botanical painter, Christina Hart-Davies, believes passionately that flowers are only part of the picture and loves to explore the different stages, related species, habitats and associated creatures that provide their setting in the wild. She looks at plants and other life forms from all angles - scientific, aesthetic and cultural - to tell The Whole Story. Showcasing examples of her most popular works, The Whole Story draws on Christina's long and parallel careers in both art and illustration. Take inspiration from her enthusiasm for the details and beauty of all aspects of the natural world and benefit from her experience as she shares techniques for painting moss and insects as well as advice on composition and lettering. This book will transform your perspective and inspire you to look beyond the flowers.Trade Review“This little book spans the many-facetted life of an artist of prestigious accomplishments, of small but exquisite, accurate paintings, expositions of artistic techniques and an uncompromising composition” – Roger Reynolds, writing in Eryngium, the Journal of the Institute for Analytical Plant Illustration

Read more less

Book SynopsisCharacter designers take inspiration from beautiful botany and, in this project-focused title, each create a brand-new character based on nature, with step-by-step tutorials allowing readers to follow along.From mushroom fairies to swamp-dwelling beasts, and Mother Nature herself, we have seen countless characters inspired by the delicacy and harshness of the natural world.The projects include notes on the ideation, research, design, and creation of the characters, leading to a stunning final image, plus a gallery from each artist showing more of their nature-themed works.Budding artists will love learning how to create these much-loved botanical characters, while more experienced creators will enjoy seeing how experts design something original. Even non-artists will want to own this book packed with beautiful imagery and intriguing, enchanting characters.The illustrative artwork is created both digitally and traditionally, with styles ranging from anime-inspired to watercolor, all with a fantastical, magical aura.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhat are the ingredients for a successful career as a botanical artist? In The Tapestry of Life, Susan Christopher-Coulson shares her compulsion to collect and then record the botanical treasures she finds and details some of her favourite tools and methods, making this book both beautiful and useful.

Read more less

Book SynopsisMonochrome collects the platinum prints of celebrated photographer Peter Dazeley. These images of plants, animals, and flowers are produced by hand and made with the original Platinotype method devised by William Willis in 1876. Platinum prints have a distinctively rich, luminous quality with great shadow detail and warmth.Printed on high-quality paper with metallic inks and casebound with a ribbon, Monochrome is the perfect gift for the photography, art, or nature lover.Trade ReviewPraise for Peter Dazeley's Unseen London:"A thrilling tour behind the closed doors of the capital city's buildings." -- Daily Telegraph"Dazeley captures the atmosphere of each building to perfection." -- Daily Express"Fascinating." -- Fabric magazine"A joy." -- Evening Standard

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe tulip is undoubtedly one of the favourite flowers of Europeans. Therefore, it deserves its own title in the outstanding Floramour series. This series is aimed at all flower enthusiasts and dedicates a photo book specifically to one variety in a new and refreshing way. In a unique manner, authors Karin Greiner and Simone Braun manage to capture and convey the graceful character and aesthetics of the tulip in Floramour: Tulips.In a magnificent homage, the photo book Floramour: Tulips pays tribute to this beloved flower. In addition to beautiful photographs, this coffee table book offers its readers an engaging all-around view of this powerful ornamental plant with informative texts and detailed drawings.Tulips are commonly considered a symbol of prosperity and luxury. In the 17th century, these floral beauties attained a particularly high status in the Netherlands and sparked a veritable tulip mania through

Read more less

Book SynopsisBestselling artist Joy Laforme intersects art and entertainment with the Joy Laforme Plant Kingdom Playing Card Set from Galison. This set features Joys's unique garden and flora designs throughout 2 sets of card decks, packaged in a decorative drawer box. • Size: 6 x 4.5 x 1.25 “, 151 x 114 x 32mm • Set of 2 Card Decks • Unique Art Throughout • Sturdy Drawer Box • Box Packaging with Thumb Hole

Read more less

Book SynopsisA FLAME TREE NOTEBOOK. Beautiful and luxurious the journals combine high-quality production with magnificent art. Perfect as a gift, and an essential personal choice for writers, notetakers, travellers, students, poets and diarists. Features a wide range of well-known and modern artists, with new artworks published throughout the year. BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED. The highly crafted covers are printed on foil paper, embossed then foil stamped, complemented by the luxury binding and rose red end-papers. The covers are created by our artists and designers who spend many hours transforming original artwork into gorgeous 3d masterpieces that feel good in the hand, and look wonderful on a desk or table. PRACTICAL, EASY TO USE. Flame Tree Notebooks come with practical features too: a pocket at the back for scraps and receipts; two ribbon markers to help keep track of more than just a to-do list; robust ivory text paper, printed with lines; and when you need to collect other notes or scraps of paper the magnetic side flap keeps everything neat and tidy. THE ARTIST. Bex Parkin is an incredibly talented illustrator. Having spent many years based in London working in a range of artistic jobs, she now lives in rural Staffordshire. Her passion for print, pattern and colour was largely inspired by her work sourcing vintage and antique textiles for the fashion industry, which can be seen throughout her artworks. THE FINAL WORD. As William Morris said, "Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful."

Read more less

Book SynopsisJohann Wilhelm Weinmann was an apothecary who established a botanic garden in Regensburg and set about producing a highly detailed catalogue of plants and their uses, with illustrations commissioned from some of the finest engravers of the time. The resulting Phytanthoza Iconographia is an immense work, contained within several volumes published between 1737 and 1745. It features no fewer than 1,025 beautiful colour plates – including early examples of colour mezzotint – of all manner of fruit and vegetables. Three of the exquisite plates are reproduced in this lovely set of A5 softback notebooks: the perfect gift for gardeners and connoisseurs of botanical illustration.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisOriginally developed in the 18th century as a visual supplement to botanical nomenclature, botanical illustration and art uniquely fuse art and science by documenting the parts, details, and life cycles of plant species. In Drawing and Painting Botanicals for Artists, eminent botanical artist and veteran workshop instructor Karen Kluglein reveals her secrets for rendering leaves, flowers, berries, and branches both accurately and beautifully. The book begins with a brief history of the art form, followed by guidance on developing observational skills for this genre, key botanical terms and concepts, and the differences among botanical illustration, botanical art, and flower painting. The chapters that follow offer detailed guidance and demonstrations for drawing and painting botanicals in a variety of mediums: Drawing. Explore loose gestural drawing, precise measuring and rendering, and working from photographs with graphite, colored pencil, finepoint markers, pen and ink, and silverpoint. Painting. Master color mixing, washes, layering, gradations, values, and adding details in watercolor, gouache, and acrylic, plus guidance on adding “personality” to your work and knowing when a painting is done. Drawing and Painting Botanicals for Artists shows artists at all skill levels how to translate careful observations into stunning works of art. The For Artists series expertly guides and instructs artists at all skill levels who want to develop their classical drawing and painting skills and create realistic and representational art. Table of Contents1 Drawing BotanicalsMEDIUMS AND SUPPLIES Graphite Pencils Colored Pencils Fine Point Markers Silverpoint Paper Erasers Pencil SharpenersESSENTIAL DRAWING TECHNIQUES Live Specimen Working from Photographs Loose Gestural Drawing Precise Measuring Values, Shadows, and Highlights Gradations Lifting GraphiteDRAWING SUBJECTS AND MEDIUMS Drawing Leaves Drawing Flowers and Petals Drawing Fruits and Berries Drawing Stems and Branches 2 Painting BotanicalsMEDIUMS AND SUPPLIES Watercolors Gouache Paintbrushes Painting SurfacesESSENTIAL PAINTING TECHNIQUES Color Mapping Washes Layering Gradations Drybrush in Watercolor Lifting Overlaps Correcting Mistakes and Making Revisions Details and Finishing Adding PersonalityPAINTING SUBJECTS Painting Leaves Painting Flowers and Petals Painting Fruits and Berries Painting Stems and Branches Final Thoughts Resources Acknowledgments About the Author Index

Read more less

Book Synopsis Botanical tarot cards: Beautifully illustrated cards call on the language of flowers to help you access deeper meanings in your readings Illustrated deck: Containing 78 cards and an 80-page guidebook Attractive gift package: Decorative storage box with a hinged lid. Cards printed on high-quality stock for a smooth, long-lasting finish. Plus a softcover guidebook with spine The perfect gift for tarot collectors and flower fans alike Access the wisdom of flowers using this beautiful, floral tarot deck Use the language of flowers to illuminate your past, present, and future with this 78-card tarot deck and guidebook. Flowers have been used to transmit hidden meanings for centuries—from yellow roses for infidelity to hyacinths for gratitude. Unlock your intuition with floriographic insight from the iconic archetypes of the Major Arcana, including Violet as the High Priestess, Sunflower as

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn introduction to botanical illustration in ten step-by-step lessons. This practical introduction to botanical illustration is formed of ten graded lessons, where each teaches you new skills to build upon the last. From mushrooms and orchids to hawthorn berries and leaves, once you've completed these lessons in drawing and painting botanical subjects, you will have all the techniques you need in order to tackle far more complex arrangements. Even if you are still an uninitiated illustrator, learn how to produce accurate and beautiful results with step-by-step instructions for each individual project. With advice on drawing accurately, measuring and recording your subject, as well as preparing a well-composed botanical plate, this book covers everything you need to know to get ahead in botanical illustration.Trade Review[Botanical Illustration] is very accomplished and will certainly inspire any would-be botanical painters to get started. * Leisure Painter *Table of ContentsIntroduction Equipment Composition Techniques Lesson 1: Accurate Drawing Lesson 2: Leaf Lesson 3: Apple Lesson 4: Mushroom Lesson 5: Pencil Lesson 6: Pen and Ink Lesson 7: Flower Lesson 8: Foliage Lesson 9: Hawthorne Leaves and Berries Lesson 10: Botanical Plate Conclusion Mounting and Framing Societies and Exhibitions Further Reading Suppliers Glossary Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhen Falstaff calls upon the sky to rain potatoes in The Merry Wives of Windsor, he is highlighting the late sixteenth-century belief that the exotic vegetable, recently introduced to England from the Americas, was an aphrodisiac. In Romeo and Juliet, Lady Capulet calls for quinces to make pies for the marriage feast of her daughter. This fruit was traditionally connected with weddings and fertility, as echoed by John Gerard in his herbal where he also explained that eating quinces would ‘bring forth wise children, and of good understanding’. Taking fifty quotations centring on flowers, herbs, fruit and vegetables, Margaret Willes gives these botanical references their social context to provide an intriguing and original focus on daily life in Tudor and Jacobean England, looking in particular at medicine, cookery, gardening and folklore traditions. Exquisitely illustrated with unique hand-painted engravings from the Bodleian Library’s copy of John Gerard’s herbal of 1597, this book marries the beauty of Shakespeare’s lines with charming contemporary renderings of the plants he described so vividly.Trade Review‘An engaging addition to Shakespeare studies … this book is a treasure, compact, readable and beautifully presented.’ * Irish Examiner *

Read more less

Book SynopsisDeals with the art of botanical drawing. This book is suitable for both aspiring and more experienced artists seeking scientific accuracy and the illusion of 3-dimension in their botanical artwork. It places an emphasis on close observation of plants and their life cycle, so that readers can deepen their understanding of the natural world.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book is based on an exhibition of the paintings of Lillian Snelling in 2007. This was the first exhibition of these drawings, by an artist considered to have been ''the greatest botanical artist of her time.''

Read more less

Book Synopsis''The stories are all so very different, some of them being quite compelling and tender featuring an interesting variety of voices and nationalities with a wide range of characters and settings'' - Advolly RichmondA group of botanists in search of rare species dismiss local custom at their peril. Love in all its wildness and wonder is found clinging to crumbling chalk cliffs and growing through cracks on city streets. A scientist takes a radical step to understand her houseplant. A poet remembers her beloved flowers, and the longing for a magnificent tropical garden outlasts death.From tokens of love to neolithic burial gifts, bridal bouquets to seasonal wreaths and healing potions to artistic masterpieces, flowers and plants have a multitude of meanings and a long and complex relationship with us. They brighten our homes and delight us in garden and countryside, convey our emotions and symbolise the stages of our human lives.

Read more less

Book SynopsisJan Hendrix is a Dutch-born, Mexico-based contemporary artist. His work is all about observation and analysis; nature and its diff erent ways of representing and telling extended stories, often in a non- linear narrative. Based on an exhibition at Kew Gardens, this book is a visual report of Hendrix’s multiple visits to the Kamay Botany Bay Area of New South Wales, Australia, made over a 20-year period. Beautiful and thought-provoking works convey his response to the fragile, changing landscape, under constant threat of fi re and destruction. His work also draws on first collections of plants at Kamay Botany Bay documented by botanists Joseph Banks, Daniel Solander and Sydney Parkinson as part of the HMS Endeavour expedition in 1770. Supporting texts by Art Historian Dawn Ades, CEO of the Bundanon Trust Deborah Ely, and filmmaker Michael Leggett contextualise the work of the artist. With a foreword by Kew Director Richard Deverell.

Read more less

Book SynopsisNow available in a new, large single volume with an appendix also listing the modern plant names, this classic collection by "the Audubon of botany" features more than 250 exquisite reproductions of Walcott's celebrated watercolors of wildflower life in the United States of America and Canada. Published in association with the Smithsonian Institution What does it take to paint a wildflower that blooms for a single day in a deep forest? For Mary Vaux Walcott, it involved spending up to seventeen hours a day out of doors with her paintbox to capture the shape, movement, and colors of delicate petals and leaves. Originally published in 1925 to enormous acclaim in five, oversized volumes, Walcott's sketches introduced the diversity and beauty of North American plants to the general public. A selection of some of the most stunning illustrations are now available in a single volume, these illustrations have lost none of their beauty or realism. Walcott's technique involved precise attention to detail, color, light, and perspective. Her art can also be appreciated as the work of a woman scientist battling the prejudices against her sex of the day. She was an intrepid explorer, skilled geologist, and generous benefactor to the Smithsonian Institution at a time when women's accomplishments were often overlooked or misattributed. As inspirational and informative as they are a pleasure for the eyes, this bouquet of nature's fleeting gifts is a lasting treasure of botanic and scientific artistry.

Read more less

Book SynopsisLeila Duly''s captivating colouring book is a celebration of a year of flowers and floral displays. Month by month, follow the progress of the seasons with intricate illustrations of flowers, birds, butterflies and other insects and small creatures to colour in, or indulge in a wonderful seasonal arrangement of blooms. From peonies and alliums swaying together in spring through late summer''s dahlias and chrysanthemums to winter berries. This colouring companion combines the best illustrations from the artist''s two bestselling books, A Flower Year and Floribunda, all in a new format. There is no better way to enjoy a year of colouring. Leila Duly''s distinctive fluid style has made her one of the most successful floral illustrators, and it is the perfect style to show us the amazing world of flowers.

Read more less

Book Synopsis Learn how to start a botanical sketchbook, to improve both your drawing skills and your appreciation of the natural world, with renowned botanical illustrator and tutor Dianne Sutherland.Sketchbooks are a simple and accessible way of becoming more involved with nature, with all the wellbeing benefits that brings, while learning to draw and paint with purpose. This beautiful yet practical book is aimed at those just starting out in botanical art and nature journaling, as well as more experienced artists looking to evolve their sketching practice.? Explore a variety of subjects: From delicate flowers and towering trees to fascinating insects and their habitats.? Learn to compose your sketches effectively: Highlight key features and capture the unique beauty of each specimen.? Experiment with different techniques and materials: Add depth and dimension to your work with expert guidance.? Incorporate colour swatches, notes, and labels: Enhance your sketchbook''s educational value and create a lasting record of your observations.In this comprehensive book packed with step-by-step instructions, Dianne generously shares her knowledge on selecting the perfect sketchbook (or even making your own with simple bookbinding techniques), to the in-depth development of sketchbook pages, covering content and composition, what parts of the plant to include, how to deal with different subjects, and now to bring your work to life with simple watercolour techniques.Illustrated throughout with examples of Dianne''s beautiful sketchbook pages this is a truly inspirational guide that will give you everything you need to start creating stunning nature sketchbooks and journals.Discover the profound therapeutic benefits of botanical sketchbooking, immerse yourself in nature, observe the intricate details of plants and insects, and harness your creativity to capture their essence on paper with Sketching Nature.

Read more less

Book SynopsisColour mixing is a key skill for the botanical artist. In this practical guide, Jackie Isard explains how to observe and use colour accurately. She shows artists how to make informed choices when selecting pigments, as well as how to learn about colour mixing and its application. Detailed instruction and advice are given on understanding colour and pigments. The author explains how to 'see' colour and tricky mixes, from greens and reds to the difficult botanical greys. Includes advanced colour application techniques - colour enhancement, shadow colours and colour temperature transition. Finally, step-by-step guides illustrate how to paint with layers, how to use underlaying colours to enhance, and colour and fine detailing.Trade ReviewThe book is illustrated throughout with Jackie’s beautiful watercolours and provides an in-depth look at the way the right colour choices can transform your botanical paintings. * Leisure Painter *

Read more less

Book SynopsisDraw Like an Artist: 100 Flowers and Plants is a must-have visual reference for student artists, botanical illustrators, urban sketchers, and anyone seeking to improve their realistic drawing skills. This comprehensive book features 600-plus step-by-step sketches depicting a vast array of beautiful botanicals, florals, plant structures, and more. Each begins with simple shapes and lines and builds on those forms, adding details like flower centers, leaf veins, and petal shading, and ending with a finished drawing. Helpful drawing tips are also included. Designed as a contemporary guidebook for artists who want to draw botanical forms, Draw Like an Artist: 100 Flowers and Plants shows flower blossoms, leaves, and plants from a variety of perspectives. By following the guides, artists will become more skilled and confident in their ability to draw any flower or greenery. Among the botanicals featured are: Tropical florals such as plumeria, protea, and African violet Hanging and vine blooms, including wisteria and morning glory Birch, white oak, gingko, and maple leaves Plants with interesting shapes, such as cactus, zebra grass, and bamboo Author Melissa Washburn is a skilled illustrator whose clear and elegant drawing style will make this a go-to sourcebook for years to come. The books in the Draw Like an Artist series are richly visual references for learning how to draw classic subjects realistically through hundreds of step-by-step images created by expert artists and illustrators.

Read more less

Book SynopsisMore than three centuries after Maria Sibylla Merian established herself as a scientific trailblazer—and after more than two centuries of obscurity—the work of this pioneering naturalist and artist is being rediscovered. Merian’s work, The New Book of Flowers, raised the artistic standards of natural history illustration. Published in 1675, the book employed impeccable botanic accuracy with artistic expression. In it, Merian moved away from traditional methods that favored single illustrations and instead composed her studies to explore the relationships between flowers and insects. This poster book draws its nearly two dozen illustrations from The New Book of Flowers. Exquisitely reproduced, each illustration reveals the exacting detail and luminous colors that are the hallmark of Merian’s work. Perfect for close study as well as decoration, this treasury of botanical delight will help brighten any room—and inspire anyone drawn to the beautiful world of flowers.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Cleghorn Collection reproduces more than 200 of the drawings from the Cleghorn Collection in colour, for the first time. These include drawings from nature, copies based on European prints, and Nature Prints made from herbarium specimens. They are the work of several South Indian artists and of pupils of the pioneering Madras School of Art.

Read more less

Book SynopsisTo study a plant in detail is to make a fascinating journey of discovery. Even plants we think we know well will often surprise us as we look at the intricacy of their structure and how they are put together. This fascinating guide explains what flowering plants are and their relationship to other groups of plants. With drawings, paintings and photographs throughout, it advises on how to carry out a botanical study and will prove essential reading for botanical artists, photographers and all those wishing to gain a greater understanding of flowering plants.

Read more less

Book SynopsisBilly Showell is a well-respected botanical watercolour artist, and her exceptional eye for detail and ability to re-create the form, texture, colour and patterning of a wide range of plants have earned her a formidable reputation worldwide. Her compositions are given a contemporary, sometimes playful twist, while retaining all the beauty and accuracy of traditional botanical paintings. In this inspiring and indispensable guide for botanical artists, she reveals the materials, methods and techniques she uses to attain her stunningly beautiful portraits of flowers, fruit and vegetables. There is expert guidance on tools and materials, working from life, observation, and drawing and painting techniques, as well as detailed sections on pattern, texture, and colour and colour mixing. With numerous step-by-step studies, close-up photographs and examples of Billy's exquisite paintings, this book is not only packed full of invaluable advice and information but also a visually stunning showcase for the work of this amazing artist.Trade ReviewDec 2016 Billy Showell has written a number of books on flower painting but these have so far concentrated on the less formal flower portrait. Where this one differs is that is approaches it entirely from the technical side. You'll look in vain for specific examples. As well as avoiding repeating what has already been said, this method fills the inevitable void left by the specimen-led way of working. It is not, however, a primer in flower painting. For all the attention given to negative shapes, brushwork and colour mixing, this is not a book for the complete beginner. In order to tackle the discipline of botanical illustration, you need to be competent and confident with your style and your materials. Informative, practical and rewarding, this meets a long-felt need. * The Artist *This is a beautifully presented book, lovely to look at, but even better than that every page is full of clearly written, simple to understand information and techniques about the subject. It covers everything from the choice and use of materials to a range of drawing and painting skills which cover every technique one would need to paint any type of plant or flower. The techniques for handling watercolour, the flow etc would be useful for anyone learning to use this medium in any form, not just botanical paintings. I found the section on colour mixing particularly good and very comprehensive, especially the mixing blacks chapter. It is one of the few books which actually acknowledges that mistakes happen, even to the best, and explains various methods of correction, and also that it takes practice to achieve these type of results. I wish it had been available when I started with botanical illustration several years ago, I think life would have been a bit easier, in short its a fabulous book, extremely informative and beautiful to look at. * Anne Chalkley *A beautiful and comprehensive book for both beginners in botanic art and for the more experienced artist. There is something here for everyone. Billy Showell has produced beautifully illustrated examples throughout the book accompanied by explicit text with highlighted tips and hints. The introductory chapters allow the novice artist to identify the materials needed and to use them as a course in developing botanical painting skills. The chapter on troubleshooting is helpful too and especially for the beginner. The more experienced artist will find it an essential reference book for observation techniques and ideas on composition. Colour mixing is explained in detail and forms the largest section of the book and could be produced as a separate book in its own right. Techniques with identified examples for painting detail, texture and patterns are included and ideas on multiple flowerheads as well as methods for painting from photographs. The glossary is useful and the index logical so that specific topics are easy to find. The principles and practices described and illustrated could be applied at any level to all water colour artists This is an essential book on any artists bookshelf! * Mary-Christine Levett *Stunning and beautiful book – I love it! Yet another stunning addition to my Billy Showell collection and an absolute must for anyone with a desire to master botanical paining. Highly recommended and well worth the money. I was so excited to receive this book and I have certainly not been disappointed. This is a beautifully presented book with stunning art work. Every single page offers hints, tips and techniques with an amazing level of detail. Whilst it shows some more advanced techniques, beginners should not be put off and the help and ideas offered is exemplary. I can’t wait to try out some of the new ideas offered such as using lifting preparation and I absolutely love the colour mixing charts. * Hazel Walters *Discover many step-by-step studies in this wonderful book, illustrated throughout and learn how to paint the plants you love - there is a wide range of flowers, foliage, fruits and combinations of flowers. The Contents include Getting Started, Working From Life, Observation, Drawing, Using a Brush, Painting Techniques, Troubleshooting, Painting Detail, Adding Pattern, Creating Texture, Painting Multi-Headed Flowers, Painting From Enlarged Photographs, Colour and Colour Mixing, Composition and Stretching and Finishing. It provides tips and techniques throughout such as how to keep stems fresh when painting from life. This book is like a how-to of all the things you have ever wanted to paint - how to remove a bloom for instance or how to create a prickly surface or which brush to use. The medley of daffodils is fabulous and the purple and blacks are sumptuously captured. A great guide for all who love botanical painting. * Karen Platt -yarnsandfabrics.co.uk *Exquisitely presented and beautifully painted, if you ever wanted something to encourage you to start botanical painting, this would be it. For such a specialist, technical subject there’s a surprising number of books on botanical art. I’m not talking about flower painting in general – there are even more of those! – but ones that specifically identify themselves as belonging to the genus of scientific representation. We could quibble over how many are actually that deeply technical. In its pure form, botanical illustration is used to aid identification and has very specific requirements. For a start, you don’t paint a single example, but rather include specific characteristics that a worker in the field would look for. This may then be used to identify an existing species in an unknown location, or maybe a new one altogether. I’ve always divided botanical art into three genres. We start with flower painting, where the purpose is to produce something that looks like what it’s meant to represent without necessarily getting every petal perfect, and where the flower itself may not be the main subject. Then there’s the flower portrait (Billy Showell’s previous speciality), where detail becomes more important and the subject may be a single stem. Finally, there’s botanical illustration, which we dealt with above. This book adds, I think, a new dimension: botanical art that goes into considerable detail, but isn’t obsessed with total scientific accuracy and can be a record of the single example you have in front of you. As such, it’s ideally suited to the artist who isn’t a scientist but nevertheless enjoys at least some of the perfectionism that goes with full-on illustration. The book is a joy to handle and very thoroughly illustrated, going into plenty of detail regarding the stages of completing a painting. This includes not only step-by-steps, but also examples and technical exercises that deal with things like water droplets – which are well outside scientific work. It’s inspiring, enjoyable and very thorough. * Artbookreview.net *Table of ContentsIntroduction 6 Materials 8 Getting started 18 Working from life 20 Observation 22 Drawing 28 Using a brush 44 Painting techniques 54 Troubleshooting 82 Painting detail 88 Adding pattern 110 Creating texture 118 Painting multi-headed flowers 130 Painting from enlarged photographs 136 Colour and colour mixing 140 Composition 178 Stretching and finishing 186 Glossary 190 Index 191

Read more less

Book Synopsis50 colour botanical postcards stored in a chunky keepsake box.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe links between the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and India go back for two and a half centuries. Surgeons who had studied botany at the Garden laid the foundations of western knowledge of the Indian flora. Supplementing their written plant descriptions with botanical drawings, commissioned from Indian artists, they established collections which survive today at Edinburgh, the Natural History Museum and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. This book tells the story of these collections, reproducing a selection of 86 exquisite, original drawings – including examples made in all three of the Presidencies (administrative units) of British India (Bombay, Bengal and Madras), between 1770 and 1860.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisIndulge Your Wanderlust by Coloring Lush Tropical Florals. Step into a vibrant, colourful paradise with this collection of stunning designer illustrations inspired by tropical destinations from around the world. Relax and let your unique artistic creativity shine as you colour designs overflowing with captivating botanicals, bold geometric patterns, rainforest birds and sea creatures. Let your colouring vacation begin.

Read more less

Book SynopsisCombining her passion for teaching with her mastery of both mediums, Camilla Damsbo Brix introduces budding artists to the whimsical beauty of watercolor, with the definition that ink offers, through 22 step-by-step floral compositions so exquisite they won’t believe how easy they are to make. Camilla gives insight into the respective fundamentals of ink and wash through basic techniques and preparatory sketches, where artists will learn crucial things like the difference between wet on wet and wet on dry, varying lines while inking, observational sketching of flowers and capturing harmonious floral compositions. Additionally, with a chapter entirely dedicated to sharing art with loved ones and with a larger artistic community, everyone will be well on their way to confidently and consistently blossoming in their practice. With Camilla’s gentle guidance, readers will be inking and painting classics like roses, lilacs and daisies, as well as annual beauties like dahlias, cosmos and sunflowers and lesser-known species like plumerias, gerberas and hellebores. This book has something for everyone, be it watercolor lovers trying to explore ink and vice versa, beginners wishing to grasp the intricacies of mixed media, or artists looking to strengthen their skills with elegant compositions they can proudly display. This book contains 22 projects and 22 photographs plus step-by-steps.

Read more less