What is Botanical Art? A botanical illustration is a specialized form of art that involves depicting plant life in a symbolic, botanical format. It can be done in a painting, sculpture, or print. Botanical illustrators must know botany and grow plants for a living. They may research existing plant types to get a better understanding of how plants grow and work. They should be scientifically accurate but are often richly colored and can be printed as a fine art piece or used in books, magazines, or other media. The representation of a plant in a botanical format is usually done for landscape design, gardening, or botanical books and magazines.
Art Form and Its Uses
Botanical arts are used for a variety of reasons. Many people study botany or pursue a career as an illustrator. Others simply enjoy creating botanical art from the image of a plant or tree. Illustrators may use botanical terms in literature or create their paintings based on plant images found in nature. Botanical illustrations are used to show growth patterns or explain why a plant is growing.
Enhance Landscaping
In landscaping and gardening, a botanical image can emphasize the contrast between green and lush plants in front of buildings, trees, or landscape features. A forest with leafy trees against a brick wall may exude a sense of ancient majesty while still being environmentally friendly. Water features such as ponds and fountains can allow botanists to show off a particular aquatic plant species or draw attention to the relationship between fish, land, and water. Landscapes can convey the physical and cultural aspects of a region. Illustrations can be of a natural or manmade nature. In any way, botanical art conveys a message to viewers about the importance of conserving our ecosystems.
A Popular Art Form Today
Botanical art originated in Europe during the renaissance but has become popular in other cultures worldwide. Art enthusiasts may go to a botanical garden or an art fair to purchase original works of art or to attend exhibitions where they can buy older works to decorate their homes. Others choose to collect art that represents their interest in nature. Original oil paintings, rare antiques, or prints of nature scenes worldwide all provide people with a hobby and a way to contemplate the wonders of nature.
Artists and ArtWork
Several companies offer artists the ability to use plants and animals worldwide to create works of art. These artists may sell their creations in various venues, including galleries, online stores, workshops, and even some gift shops. Many dealers offer kits and instructions for making your art, which may be made from real or synthetic materials and/or plants and animals of your choice.
If you would like to start a botanical garden on your property, you need to find a knowledgeable person to help you get started.