A letter from the Editor

Dear Friends:
Recently I was asked how to define "Botanical Art." With its ever-increasing interest, many artists are exploring this field and wondering whether or not their work is truly an example of botanical art. It was once told to me that our role is to "explain" the species so that the viewer can identify it in the field. So then the question arises, how do we "explain."

From a strictly scientific point of view, our botanical art will reveal more the closer we get to it. We will probably include enough detail to separate one species from another, as well as add the proper number of stamens, record the proper leaf formations, attachments, and posture, show the front and back of leaves, the roots system perhaps, the plant stages including flower and fruit, etc.

All this detail, plus clean and precise edges. Whew! It is a hefty number of things indeed that we need to include and then, if that were not enough, we are to present our "explanation" in such a way that the viewer is not thoroughly overwhelmed. Which brings us to composition…and yes…this too exists in botanical art and includes design, as well as balance of color, detail, and values.

It’s no wonder the exactitude of these paintings take quite some time to produce, and then when finished, we risk hearing, "Why, does that plant really grow like that?!" Beginning botanical art with an eye for precision is similar, I suppose, to the study of classical ballet…all those pliés really do help you get off the ground! God Bless. OM

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Summer
Botanical Art Workshops
740 Madison Avenue @ 64th Street
Session 12: July 16 to July 20, 2001, 10am to 4pm $495
Mount Kisco, New York
Session 15: Aug 20 to Aug 24, 2001, 10am to 4pm $495
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Summer in Vermont
Green Mountain College Academy
TWO Botanical Art Workshops
w/ OM Braida
At the beautiful Stratton Mountain Resort in Vermont!
Art, Tennis, Golf, Swim, and more!!!

Session 13: Drawing
July 30-Aug 3, 9:30am to 4pm $355 ($305 Mem)

Session 14: Watercolor
Aug 6-Aug 10, 9:30am to 4pm $355 ($305 Mem)

For Registration & Lodging
Call Rita Silverman 802-362-0788

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