Uncommon NZ native botanical illustrations

Native Red Mistletoe botanical study, Hand drawn, water colour, floral, sketchbook, Native Red Mistletoe Christmas Card, greeting cards, pirirangi

Uncommon native botanical illustrations.

Client Name: Personal Project

The Objective: I illustrated native flowers and plants, focusing on uncommon species that I rarely saw other artists draw. I sought out lesser-known flowers instead of the more familiar ones. For each plant, I used a sketchbook study style, grouping multiple flowers on a page. I included notes about each species, along with sketches from different angles and close-ups of leaves or stems. This approach highlighted the unique beauty and diversity of underappreciated native plants, while also providing useful botanical information for viewers.

Outcome: I plan to use these illustrations individually for various projects such as greeting cards, wallpaper, fabric designs, and possibly art prints. Unexpectedly, I found myself really drawn to the original study pages. Because of this, I’m considering showcasing them as they are – perhaps in an exhibition.

Date: 2025

Services/Other Credit: Black Pen, Watercolour, Paper.

Botanical Illustrations – Personal Project

In 2025, I embarked on a personal project to explore the world of native flora through art. My focus was on creating uncommon native botanical illustrations that shine a light on species often overlooked by other artists. Instead of choosing the most popular or widely recognized flowers, I searched for lesser-known plants that deserve more attention.

Each illustration began as a careful study in my sketchbook. I grouped several flowers on each page, capturing their unique forms and characteristics. Using black pen and watercolour on paper, I aimed to bring out the delicate details and vibrant colours of each specimen. I also included handwritten notes, sketches from different angles, and close-ups of leaves or stems. This process not only helped me understand the plants more deeply but also allowed me to share useful botanical information with viewers.

The result is a collection that celebrates the diversity and hidden beauty of native plants. These illustrations are versatile and can be used in a variety of creative projects. I plan to adapt them for greeting cards, wallpaper, fabric designs, and potentially art prints. As the project evolved, I found myself especially fond of the original sketchbook study pages. Their raw, authentic feel inspired me to consider exhibiting them as a series, allowing others to appreciate the process and detail behind each piece.

Through this project, I hope to inspire others to look closer at the natural world and discover the charm of plants that often go unnoticed.

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Pin It on Pinterest