At first glance these plants may seem real but each botanical is actually an amalgam of natural elements. These elements can be quite diverse, not only derived from plants and animals, but also inspired by emotions, movement and the human form. Together these natural patterns create evocative new forms that are still very familiar.
Each botanical goes through four stages. From the initial concept, the plant is first laid out in graphite on printmaking paper. This particular paper allows a balanced control with both pencils and brushes. Watercolor is then applied which can wash out the graphite; so another layer of graphite is worked back in during the final stage to darken the lines. For additional highlighting charcoal or pastels may then be added.