For our class, our main instruction book is Beautiful Botanicals by Bente Starcke King. I’ve read the Introduction chapter and skimmed through the book, and find it to be lovely, informative, and inspiring. Some of the quotes in the Introduction chapter that stood out to me are:

“Taida Blush Orchids,” Colored Pencil, June 9, 2024

“If you create from the heart, nearly everything is possible; if from the head, almost nothing.” by Marc Chagall, one of my favority painters. He has an expressive, storyteller style that is easy to fall in love with. I’m not sure I TOTALLY agree with his quote, as I feel both the mind and heart give vital information and listening to both are important for illustration. However, as I approach my assignments, I am going to open my heart to my wonderful plant specimens and listen to what they say to me.
“…a work of art is a personal encounter with a reality, not a copy.” - Van Gogh. As I study my plant subjects, I will ask them, “Hey beautiful and strange plant, what do you want to say to me?” and I will listen and see if I can capture some of their spirit and not only what I initially see.

I currently have a flowering Phalaenopsis Taida Blush orchid that is so pretty, delicate, and translucent. I think it’d be best expressed through watercolor, but right now I’ll spend some time drawing them. All the curves of an orchid feels so organic and feminine. After I was mostly done coloring the flowers, I thought I’d try a somewhat-complementary-colored geometric background. I thought the contrast of the diagonals would pop the flowing curves of the flowers or provide some interest. I’m not sure if it’s “successful,” but part of this class is going to be exploring and trying ideas.